About Seasonal affective disorder
Seasonal affective disorder is a recurring pattern of depression linked to a particular season, most often fall and winter. Low mood, reduced interest, low energy, increased sleep and appetite changes may return around the same time each year.
Symptoms can overlap between conditions. How they change, relevant health history, medications and risk factors are therefore as important as the condition name during an assessment.
Symptoms and details worth noting
Before a consultation, note the details that best describe the concern. They help the healthcare professional understand the problem and how urgent it may be.
- Thoughts, emotions and physical symptoms
- Sleep, appetite, concentration and daily functioning
- How long the concern has been present and what makes it better or worse
- Medication, substance use, supports and previous care
Possible causes and context
These factors can guide an assessment, but they cannot confirm a diagnosis on their own.
- Stress, trauma, loss or major life change
- Sleep, physical health and medication effects
- Alcohol, cannabis or other substance use
- Personal and family mental-health history
LASO MD
How a virtual consultation may help
The healthcare professional first checks symptoms, risk factors and warning signs. Based on the assessment, they may discuss appropriate options or recommend in-person care.
- Provide a private space to discuss symptoms
- Assess safety and day-to-day functioning
- Discuss evidence-informed care options
- Connect the patient with appropriate ongoing or urgent support
Signs that need prompt attention
If you may harm yourself or someone else, cannot stay safe, or are experiencing a mental-health emergency, call 911. In Canada, call or text 988 for suicide crisis support.