Depression is one of the most common mental health disorders affecting millions yearly. During the fall and winter months, some people may experience seasonal depression due to the lack of sun and staying inside more. Coping with seasonal depression is possible when you develop healthy coping mechanisms for depression through an accredited mental health treatment program. These programs will give patients the coping skills they need to live happy and healthy lives throughout the year.
At Arkview Recovery, we help individuals who are struggling with seasonal depression and other types of mental health disorders. Our team of behavioral therapists and support staff will run a full assessment and build a treatment program to address your depressive symptoms. You will participate in group and private therapy sessions to develop and practice coping skills and see how peers from different walks of life cope with their depression. Call 717.744.0756 today to speak with our friendly team for more information about our mental health treatment facility.
Understanding Seasonal Depression
All of us have a biological clock or circadian rhythm that is affected by the changing of the seasons. It can cause depression in some people who are more susceptible to this treatable disorder and who live in communities that only get a few hours of sunlight during the fall and winter months. It can affect your mood, cause sadness and loneliness, and impact your sleeping patterns, appetite, and desire to be social.
Seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, is more common in northern and southern countries far from the equator. Fortunately, seasonal depression is treatable through a combination of behavioral therapy and medication to minimize any symptoms disrupting your work or personal life.
Why Coping Skills Are Important
Developing coping skills is necessary for dealing with life’s ups and downs and everything in between. Coping skills can be very beneficial in helping people:
- Ease depressive symptoms
- Help them stay present and in the moment instead of focusing on negative thoughts
- Reduces urges for drugs and alcohol
- Improves their general well-being and outlook on life
If left untreated, seasonal depression can lead to worsening depression and substance abuse, complicating recovery.
Coping with Depression at Work
Depression at work can significantly impact your work and may lead to a decrease in work performance and potentially losing your job. To avoid this, you should be honest with your employer about your depression and need for treatment. There are federal laws in place that protect employees who need to take time off for their recovery.
At Arkview Recovery Center, our team has experience treating all types of depression and other mental health disorders. During admissions, we will discuss why coping skills are critical and answer any questions you have about the recovery experience.
3 Strategies for Coping with Seasonal Depression
There are several strategies for coping with seasonal depression, from meditation to creative writing and other holistic activities. Therapists will help you develop the right coping skills based on your individual symptoms and personal history. Here are three healthy coping mechanisms for depression:
- Practice mindfulness techniques – Mindfulness techniques help you focus on the task at hand instead of the negative thinking common with depression. Therapists will teach you how to focus on the present with various coping techniques, including deep breathing exercises, meditation, or other holistic skills.
- Personalize your workspace – Coping with depression at work can prevent a drop in performance or be passed over for a raise or promotion. If you have a dedicated workspace, put up photos of loved ones and other things that make you happy. If you can, listen to meditative music that can help you focus.
- Avoid drugs and alcohol – While the short-term euphoria that comes with drinking or drug use may seem like it’s helping, the long-term consequences of substance abuse can worsen your depression and cause significant damage to your brain and body.
Coping with seasonal depression can help improve your mood during the fall and winter months. The coping skills you learn will make it easier to stay happy and productive during winter and the rest of the year.
Find Compassionate Mental Health Treatment at Arkview Recovery
At Arkview Recovery, we teach our patients healthy coping mechanisms for depression, substance abuse, and other types of mental health disorders. We take the time to build trust and open communication with each patient, so they feel comfortable opening up and talking about their depression and other sensitive subjects.
If you are experiencing seasonal depression and ready for a change, call 717.744.0756 or fill out our online form, and we will get back to you within 24 hours.
Kyle is Lead Therapist at Arkview Recovery Center. He holds a Master of Social Work degree from Temple University and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. He has years of experience working directly with individuals who suffer from addiction and mental health disorders. Being in long term recovery himself, Kyle is very passionate about the recovery process. He is heavily involved in the local recovery community in which he enjoys his commitments to service and giving back. His specialty is in group therapy and developing clinical staff. Kyle brings to Arkview a holistic approach to recovery, specializing in mindfulness, reality therapy, and solution-focused therapy.
