Are the systems for depression the same even if it is so call seasonal depression?

Question

I'm tired felling like I could cry at the drop of the hat. I dont have any get up and go. It gets worse at night. I have a Dr. appt. so I know that will help I just needed to ask. thanks for the help.

Answer 1

Yes, they are....the main difference is that you have a couple of more options besides going on medications that may take *all winter* before they start to work (really, many SSRI type anti-depressants can take 4-8 weeks to fully work).

One of these is something called "light therapy" where you actually get something called a light box and expose yourself to really bright, intense light for a few hours a day. You might want to ask your doctor about it, or do a search on that phrase in quotes up there. :)

And well, I'm not going to overwhelm you with a ton of info right before your doctor's visit because you will need your wits about you for that visit. I understand, it isn't just the mood, depression can also mess up your concentration, short-term memory and motivation.

So I hope your visit goes well and that you get a little more out of it all than just a trip to the pharmacist for some pills (because the pills don't always help, sorry).

Answer 2

Hello Reggie,
The symptoms of depression and SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) can be similar, no energy, crying. The difference is depression is a chemical imbalance, lasts much longer and requires much more in depth care. Whereas SAD sufferers need to get into some regular sunshine or into a light therapy to lift their symptoms. And they need to know all symptoms will let up when the sun returns more on a daily basis. In the meantime, use any indoor lighting 100 watt bulb, 150 watt (do not look into the light) keep your eyes closed... and let it shine upon you. If you have fluorescent lighting, it's better. Also they have "light therapy lamps" on the market if you want to invest in one.
I hope this helps you to feel better! :)

Answer 3

I recently visited the doctor to treat my feelings at the time. I was going through a time of change - new job, new city, new friends etc. I was feeling anxious all the time, and used to cry when alone for no apparent reason. Also, in social situations I would suddenly lose the ability to mix with people for no reason, and go into my shell.

The doctor I spoke with noticed that I was on edge, and I cried when I discussed my mindset at that time. He said it was clearly depression. I was started on a course of medication, and I can happily say that life has become much more settled, and I have a much more balanced view on things and find it easier to make a good decision.

I could'nt believe I put up with feeling like that for so long!

So, in your case, there is help out there, you just have to seek it. Depression/Anxiety problems are not something you can just 'snap' out of, you let people close to you know what you are going through.

Good luck at the doctor, and with everything.

Answer 4

SAD (seasonal depresssion) is simply classic depression but caused by the winter weather (often caused by lack of sunlight). Spend some time outside in the sun as much as you can, or if you cant, take light therapy with a light box or a light book--its pricy (around $250-$300) but it helps lift the symptoms just using it 15 minutes a day.

Answer 5

I suffer with depression too, I take prozac and it saved my life and those around me, I felt bitchy, tired, wanted to crawl in a hole. I am so much easier to live with and I am much happier. Prozac makes you think, and not lash out at people.