TriHealth Table Talk: Seasonal Affective Disorder

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is more than just the “winter blues.” It is a form of clinical depression that is unique from other forms of mental illness because it is generally brought on by seasonal influences, specifically during the winter months. Like other mental health conditions, SAD can impact not only your emotional health, but have a significant impact on your physical health.

This episode of TriHealth Table Talk features Diane Mushaben, MA, LPCC-S, Specialty Treatment Coordinator with TriHealth EAP, and Kate Schlouch, MS, Wellness Coordinator and Health Coach with TriHealth Corporate Health.

They discuss a variety of topics surrounding SAD and answer questions submitted by viewers. Some of the topics included are:

• Seasonal influences that increase your vulnerability to SAD
• What the likelihood of developing SAD is at its peak, who is most vulnerable and why
• Symptoms of SAD and the potential impact on your mental and physical well-being
• Wellness activities to help reduce your vulnerability to SAD or help yourself or your loved ones feel better if you are experiencing the symptoms
• Setting realistic goals to help you develop healthy habits surrounding those wellness activities and how to deal with the challenges and setbacks brought on by influences such as weather, your daily life, limited mobility and more
• The prevalence of SAD among children and its impact on their health
• The likelihood of SAD to develop into long-term and harmful depression
• The prevalence of SAD during the COVID-19 pandemic, the extra challenges it presents and how to differentiate between SAD and COVID fatigue.
• What resources are available and when you should seek assistance such care from a medical professional or counselor.

This video was first broadcast via Facebook Live. Follow our Facebook page for more videos and health information.