For some people, the darker, colder weather can have a severe impact on mood. A more formal diagnosis of this experience may be SAD or Seasonal Affective Disorder.  SAD is a form of depression, and is treatable, like other depression disorders. A quick google search will suggest a mood light, vitamin D, medication (SSRI perhaps) and/or therapy. But what would that therapy entail? How would it help?

Depression is a tricky illness. It robs a person of the desire to seek out help. When people are depressed, they tend to isolate and dive deeper into their mental darkness in an almost addictive way. Negative self-talk binds negative emotions and physical exhaustion into a vicious circle of despair.

So, if someone you love is feeling depressed, you may need to help interrupt the cycle of sadness. This interruption might involve taking your loved one to an appointment or steering them toward other resources for treatment. Your help can serve as a catalyst for change, but be careful not to cross the line into codependence or enabling. Once they are started, it is time for you to shift gears from advocate to supporter. It is not to say a supporter should abandon their SAD person, rather they might allow for that person to feel the positive energy evoked from independence and agency.

Therapy sessions will likely involve an intake process which will assess the SAD person’s history, background and physical health. As well, the client and therapist will explore things like: desire for change, barriers, strengths and goals. Sessions will involve processing emotions, learning to challenge thoughts, as well as navigating the delicate interplay between genetics, environment and behaviour.

Therapy is not just about use of tools to rewire the brain and change a persons habits and patterns. It is about connection, trust and compassion. Fifty percent of success in therapy can be attributed to the alliance between the therapist and the client. This is a unique and powerful relationship, which can boost the healing process, when managed and cared for with respect, honesty and integrity.

Everyone is different, therefore every treatment plan will be different. Depending on how one interprets the world and their own suffering, the plan for wellness will change. It will be designed by the client, and adapted together with their therapist.

I encourage you or someone you love who may be suffering with SAD, to interrupt the dark cycle and get treatment.