Seasonal Affective Disorder - a kind of depression that results from changes in the body chemistry due to reduced periods of sunlight, and therefore more common during winter months and in northern areas. Some form of sleep disturbance - either sleeping poorly or sleeping for long periods. The sleep problems often occur as frequent awakenings during the night or early morning awakening. Any of the mood disorders are serious because of both the possibility of suicidal thoughts or actions and the overall inabilities of the individual to cope with life. The most important thing is not to let depression go undiagnosed or untreated.
Depression is a treatable disorder and can usually be helped.
This is quite normal. Once you start, you will probably notice that your anxiety decreases as we begin to discuss the problems. Dr. Martin will want to know the history of the depression - how long it has been present, whether it appears to be connected to some situation in your life, the symptoms you are experiencing, and what has and has not helped. As you both begin to zero in on the problem, Dr. Martin will suggest a strategy for treating it. If relevant, he will also discuss the role medications might play in recovery and which professional should prescribe them.