The seasons are changing and so can your moods change. The Fall and the Winter can be difficult for those persons who suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder(SAD) or the Winter Blues. Many people don’t realize how troubling the seasons of fall/winter can be for those who suffer from this illness. This disease is more prevalent in women with a diagnosis of Bipolar II. You must be treated by a licensed healthcare professional because the treatment is a little different than that for garden-variety Depression. (See a Psychiatrist) The problem is that many of us have not and will NOT check out or mental status so we don’t know that we are sick. I have a couple of questions for you:
- Do you have difficulty initiating, or maintaining sleep?
- Do you crave carbohydrates in the winter? (breads, potatoe chips, sugar, etc.)
- Are you a little short and irritable 3-4 days in a week?
- Do you have a decreased interest in extra-curricula activities and sex?
- Do you have problems staying on task and concentrating?
- Do you sometimes feel like your family would be” better off” without you?
- Do you dislike your spouse/lover or children?
If you answered yes to 3 or more of the above questions, you should be further evaluated for the “Winter Blues!” This is a serious illness and can almost debilitate some persons in the fall/winter months.
Depression and Suicide are very serious medical problems in our communities. The “Winter Blues” raises its nasty head once the seasons change to more cold weather. If you are not sure about your mental status go to Dr. Owens’ Mental Health “free” Prescreen Assessment and check your mental status now! This is very important and serious.
