Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) or what is now called major depressive disorder with seasonal pattern (MADS), is a type of depressive episode that individuals describe experiencing during certain times of the year (majority of the cases occur during the fall or winter).

Individuals who report difficulties with SAD/MADS often describe feeling excessively tired, depressed, and irritable. Some other symptoms that individuals experience include difficulties concentrating, trouble sleeping, and muscle aches/pains. 

According to Fiona Marschall and Peter Cheevers’ text, Positive Options for Seasonal Affective Disorder, light therapy combined with counselling is considered to be the most effective method for treating SAD/MADS symptoms. Marchall and Cheever’s suggest that SAD/MADS symptoms are thought to be caused by a biochemical imbalance in the brain (lack of serotonin).  Research suggests that emotional stress during the winter months may trigger the depression associated with SAD/MAD.

If you’d like to find out more information about how our Vaughan or Maple counselling centre can help, please feel free to give us a call at 416-999-343 or fill out the appointment request form.