Caring for your mental health as the seasons change

Experiencing all four seasons is one of the many perks of living in Minnesota, but winter can bring its share of challenges. With dark mornings, early sunsets and a seemingly endless stretch of cold weather, it’s not uncommon to feel your energy and motivation take a dip during the winter months. These factors can all take a toll on your mental health; and for some, it’s more than a case of the “winter blues.”

5 to 10% of Minnesotans experience seasonal depression

Major depressive disorder with a seasonal pattern, commonly referred to as seasonal affective disorder (SAD) or seasonal depression, is a type of depression that occurs during a specific time of the year, typically during the fall and winter months.

Bryan Pelka, MD, psychiatrist, Mental Health Services, Ridgeview, explains, “There are likely several contributing factors to seasonal depression. For example, how much daylight we have during the day can affect an individual’s circadian rhythm. This rhythm is involved in how we regulate our emotions, so individuals who wouldn’t otherwise struggle with elements of depression can experience significant symptoms during this seasonal period.”

When it's more than the "winter blues"

While it's completely normal to experience a few sluggish days during winter, symptoms of seasonal depression can take a larger toll on your day-to-day life. Symptoms of seasonal depression are nearly identical to depression, but they typically begin and end at the same time every year. These symptoms may include feeling sad, anxious or empty, having a loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies or activities, difficulty concentrating and feeling hopeless.

“The winter months take up a significant portion of the year in Minnesota — and a significant part of your life,” Dr. Pelka said. “It may be time to reach out if at any point you are noticing changes in your mood that are dramatically affecting your functionality or ability to do things that you want or need to be able to do.”

Treatment for seasonal depression

Dr. Pelka says a great place to start the conversation is with your primary care provider. They can provide resources, medication and other treatment options to help. Treatment for seasonal depression typically includes light therapy, medication and/or talk therapy with a mental health provider.

Ridgeview offers mental health services in partnership with Allina Health. The mental health services team provides specialized care for a range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, grief and loss, trauma and much more.

“There are things happening in the brain that we can’t always just ‘will ourselves through’ or decide not to let affect us. There’s no shame in looking for help, just like one might seek help for a broken bone or high blood pressure,” Dr. Pelka explained.

Ridgeview’s Mental Health Services are available at Two Twelve Medical Center in Chaska. The programs include an outpatient clinic, adult day treatment/intensive outpatient care and a partial hospitalization program (an outpatient service that acts as an alternative to hospitalization).

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