Seasonal Affective Disorder Treatment
Locations in Chicago & Westmont, IL

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs at a specific time of year, usually during the fall and winter months. As daylight hours shorten and temperatures drop, many individuals experience changes in mood and energy levels that can significantly impact their daily lives.

At Midwest Wellness Center Associates, we understand the challenges posed by SAD and are committed to providing compassionate care and effective treatment options to help you regain balance and well-being.

If you want to learn more about treatment options for Seasonal Affective Disorder, please call (630) 496-5368 for our Westmont location or (773) 900-8781 for our Chicago location.

Our leading team of psychiatrists is here to help.

What Is Seasonal Affective Disorder?

Seasonal Affective Disorder is a mood disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of depression that follow a seasonal pattern. Unlike typical depression, SAD symptoms emerge and recede around the same times each year. While most people with SAD experience symptoms in late fall and winter, a smaller percentage may have episodes during the spring and summer.

What Are the Symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder?

Common symptoms of SAD include:

• Persistent Low Mood: Feelings of sadness or hopelessness that last most of the day, nearly every day.
• Loss of Interest: loss of interest or pleasure in activities you once enjoyed.
• Low Energy and Fatigue: Unusual tiredness and lack of energy, making even simple tasks feel exhausting.
• Changes in Sleep Patterns: Oversleeping (hypersomnia) is common, though some may experience insomnia.
• Appetite Changes: Cravings for carbohydrates and weight gain.
• Difficulty Concentrating: Trouble focusing, remembering details, or making decisions.
• Social Withdrawal: Often isolating yourself from friends and family.
• Irritability and Anxiety: Increased feelings of tension or agitation.

If you are experiencing the above symptoms seasonally and if they impact your daily functioning, it may be time to seek professional help. Please call (630) 496-5368 for our Westmont location or (773) 900-8781 for our Chicago location. Early recognition and intervention can prevent symptoms from worsening and improve your overall quality of life.

Understanding these factors can help our team at Midwest Wellness Center Associates develop personalized treatment plans that address the root causes of your symptoms.

What Causes Seasonal Affective Disorder?

The exact cause of SAD is not fully understood, but several factors are believed to contribute:

• Reduced Sunlight Exposure: Shorter daylight hours can disrupt your circadian rhythm (internal biological clock), leading to feelings of depression.
• Serotonin Levels: Decreased sunlight can cause a drop in serotonin, a neurotransmitter that affects mood, appetite, and sleep.
• Melatonin Levels: Changes in season can affect melatonin production, which influences sleep patterns and mood regulation.
• Vitamin D Deficiency: Less sun exposure can lead to lower vitamin D levels, which may affect serotonin activity.

Genetics and personal history of depression or bipolar disorder may also increase the risk of developing SAD.

Treatment for Seasonal Affective Disorder at Midwest Wellness Center

At Midwest Wellness Center Associates, we offer a comprehensive approach to treating SAD, tailored to meet your individual needs:

Psychotherapy

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is effective in treating SAD by helping patients identify and modify negative thought patterns and behaviors. Therapy provides coping strategies to manage stress and symptoms. Our experienced therapists focus on techniques that build resilience against seasonal triggers.

Medication Management

To help regulate neurotransmitter levels, our psychiatrists may prescribe antidepressant medications, such as Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs). Our team will collaborate closely with you to identify the most suitable medication and dosage, continuously monitoring your progress and adjusting the treatment plan as necessary.

Lifestyle Modifications

• Exercise: Regular physical activity can improve mood and reduce anxiety.
• Nutrition: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains supports overall health. This may include supplementing vitamin D.
• Sleep Hygiene: Establishing a consistent sleep schedule enhances sleep quality.
• Outdoor Activities: Spending time outside during daylight hours can increase sunlight exposure.

Our team is dedicated to supporting you through every step of your treatment journey, ensuring you receive the highest quality care. Our goal is to make sure you feel heard and understood by providing the best possible psychiatric treatments available so that you can get back to your normal self as soon as possible. We welcome you to heal and grow with us all in a safe and inviting environment.

If you or someone you know is struggling with Seasonal Affective Disorder, professional help is available. Early intervention can make a significant difference in managing symptoms and improving quality of life. To learn more about psychiatry online, please call (630) 496-5368 for our Westmont location or (773) 900-8781 for our Chicago location.