Feeling blue, fatigued, and withdrawn when the days are shorter are signs of a type of depression called seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Across Colorado, Andrea D. Skrocki, NP, provides personalized telepsychiatric care for SAD with remote appointments and medication management. Call her Denver, Colorado, office for a telepsychiatry appointment or book online today.

What is seasonal affective disorder?

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD), also called seasonal depression, is a form of depression that tends to appear in people during the months of the year when there’s less daylight. For many people, the symptoms begin in the early winter and last through early spring. However, it’s also possible to experience a summertime variety of SAD.

Experts speculate that SAD may be linked to melatonin changes that happen when there is less daylight. Melatonin is a hormone that regulates your sleep cycle. When it’s dark outside for more hours, your body naturally increases melatonin production. 

Andrea welcomes you to meet for a telepsychiatry consultation that takes 50-60 minutes. During this initial evaluation, she reviews your symptoms and determines whether or not SAD is causing your symptoms. 

How can I tell if I have seasonal affective disorder?

SAD causes an array of symptoms that repeat for roughly the same period of time every year. You may begin to predict when your symptoms start and when they decline. 

Some of the most common symptoms of seasonal depression are:

• Sleeping a lot
• Fatigue and drowsiness during the day
• Irritability
• Anxiety
• Appetite changes
• Social withdrawal
• Rejection sensitivity
• Low sex drive
• Trouble concentrating

Seasonal affective disorder is one of several types of depression, all with similar symptoms. A professional evaluation from Andrea confirms your diagnosis so you can get the appropriate care. 

What are my treatment options for seasonal affective disorder?

SAD is treatable with individualized telepsychiatric care. Andrea can prescribe medications and give you helpful guidance for managing your symptoms at home. Your care recommendations might include the following:

Antidepressants

Antidepressant medications correct chemical imbalances in your brain that contribute to symptoms of SAD. 

Light therapy

Light therapy can be as simple as spending as much time outside in the sun as possible. If you can’t get enough time outside, there are specific artificial light sources that offer similar benefits. 

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), helps you reframe your thoughts and feelings to manage your SAD symptoms. 

Sticking to a consistent everyday routine that includes a healthy diet and regular exercise may help regulate your symptoms too. 

Schedule your telepsychiatric evaluation and treatment consultation over the phone or online with Andrea today.