Seasonal Affective Disorder: What It Is and How to Manage It

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Fall and winter are exciting seasons full of holidays, gatherings, and travel, but many people struggle to enjoy this time of year. People who have experienced symptoms of depression during fall or winter might benefit from learning more about Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

Here’s what to know about SAD, and a few strategies that can help manage it.

What Is SAD?

Not to be dismissed as a case of the winter blues, Seasonal Affective Disorder can significantly impact the lives of people who experience it. People who believe they’re experiencing SAD should find therapist by insurance to learn more about treatment options and coping strategies.

The precise cause of SAD is not known, but many mental health professionals believe it has to do with experiencing less sunlight during the fall and winter. Sunlight influences the circadian rhythm, also known as the sleep-wake cycle. When this rhythm is disrupted, the body produces varying levels of melatonin and serotonin, two hormones that impact mood and rest.

Fortunately, with proactive strategies, it’s possible to cope with SAD and make the most of fall and winter.

Strategies for Managing SAD

Here are a few ways to manage Seasonal Affective Disorder.

Connect with a Mental Health Professional
The first step in any mental health journey is finding the right therapist. Luckily, online platforms make it easy to access the care you need when you need it. If you’re a Cigna policyholder, explore therapy Cigna benefits by searching for a professional in your network through a reliable online mental health platform. A qualified therapist or psychiatry provider can help people cope with SAD in meaningful, measurable ways.

Practice Healthy Habits
Mental and physical health go hand in hand, so practicing healthy daily habits is a great way to help manage symptoms of SAD. Regular exercise, eating a balanced diet, getting plenty of sleep, and spending time with others may help address symptoms of SAD and promote general health.

With proactive strategies and coping mechanisms, people who experience Seasonal Affective Disorder can face fall and winter with confidence.

About SonderMind

 Therapy is a tool to achieve better mental health, and SonderMind will be there for you from the moment you search for a therapist that accepts the insurance Blue Cross Blue Shield plan, Cigna, or another insurance company. The online therapy resource connects you to a therapist or psychiatry provider to help you work toward mental health goals. Whether you attend sessions in person or use their app to schedule and attend sessions virtually, you will feel SonderMind’s dedication to offering accessible mental health resources and care for everyone.

 Find a therapist who understands your goals at https://www.sondermind.com/

Location: 1099 18th St Suite 2350, Denver, CO 80202, USA

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