Seasonal Depression Increases in Autumn and Winter

Üsküdar University NP Feneryolu Medical Center Psychiatrist Dr. Erman Şentürk shared his evaluations about seasonal depression.

Begins in autumn and winter

Şentürk stated that seasonal changes affect the mental state, energy level, sleep-wake duration, appetite, eating habits and social life of individuals, “However, this situation can sometimes appear as a picture that requires treatment by living much above normal. Seasonal depression is a type of affective disorder characterized by depressive symptoms that usually begin in autumn and winter, regress in spring and summer, and recur in seasonal transitions. The onset and recovery of a depressive episode are directly related to seasonal changes. said.

Seasonal depression negatively affects life

Expressing that seasonal depression also affects social relations and working life negatively, Şentürk said, “Despite the increase in sleeping hours, loss of energy, waking up with difficulty in the morning, increased appetite, inability to gather energy even for the simplest tasks, fatigue, weakness, reluctance, pessimism, inability to enjoy life, Being away from social activities and surroundings, difficulty concentrating, loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities are the symptoms of seasonal depression. he said.

Melatonin and Serotonin are effective

Şentürk stated that while serotonin gives a feeling of vitality and vitality, melatonin, on the contrary, is substances that slow down physical energy and cause drowsiness. With the fall and winter months, the decrease in the time spent in daylight and the increase in the hours of darkness, a decrease in the level of serotonin and an increase in the level of melatonin are observed. It is thought that the decrease in the physical space of the person with the cold weather is also effective on seasonal depression. used the phrases.

Seasonal depression treatment

Pointing out that the risk of seasonal depression is higher in individuals and women who have had depression before, Şentürk said, “In the treatment of seasonal depression, light therapy (phototherapy) and cognitive behavioral therapy are also used in addition to antidepressants and vitamin D supplements in cases deemed appropriate by the psychiatrist. Using more daylight, healthy eating, regular sleep, physical exercise, spending more time on social relationships and hobbies play an important role in preventing seasonal depression. said.