SAD can be treated, much like regular depression. Apart from prescribed medication, “working out is the best medicine here, [as it] boosts mood, improves sleep … and could be a social activity,” Barton adds. You can also boost your mood by eating vitamin-rich foods and trying to get as much sunlight as possible. (Yes, even though it’s freezing outside.)
Initially, your CBT therapist will help you complete a list of the problems you want to address. You’ll also develop realistic, flexible and frequently reviewed goals you would like to achieve.
Your therapist will encourage you to talk about your thoughts and feelings and what's troubling you. Don't worry if you find it hard to open up about your feelings. Your therapist can help you gain more confidence and comfort.
A BABCP accredited therapist helps you to understand the relationship between:
Unhelpful Behaviours (e.g. avoidance or substance use)
Thinking distortions (like catastrophising or always looking at the worst part of the experience)
Being in negative emotional states (like anxiety, stress or depression)
Physical symptoms (such as lack of energy, muscle tension or palpitations)
Traumatic life events