Tips For Navigating Seasonal Affective Disorder With An Eating Disorder
Seasonal Affective Disorder, also known as SAD, is characterized by seasonal depression. Individuals experience depressive symptoms during the fall and winter months when the weather becomes colder, and there is little to no sunlight. However, the intensity of these symptoms can be challenging if you are struggling with an eating disorder or food and body distress.
By: Regina Colie
Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder
Between 18 to 30, Seasonal Affective Disorder can become more prominent in an individual's life. According to the American Psychiatric Association, some symptoms include feeling sad or depressed, changes in sleep and eating patterns, and energy loss. There are various treatment options for those struggling with SAD, including cognitive behavior therapy and light therapy.
However, there is an unexpected connection between Seasonal Affective Disorder and the onset of an eating disorder. Individuals can be triggered by depression when experiencing an eating disorder. There is also a notable increase in patients entering eating disorder treatments during winter because of lower vitamin D and serotonin levels. Ben Mahoney states, in an article for Center for Discovery Eating Disorder Treatment, "studies show that 60-90% of individuals diagnosed with Seasonal Affective Disorder are…the same demographic that is primarily diagnosed with eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa, binge eating disorder, and bulimia nervosa."
Helpful Tips For Navigating SAD & ED Symptoms
Talk to Someone
If you are struggling, find someone you trust and seek professional guidance. You are not alone, and help is always out there.
Try Light Therapy
Light therapy can help alleviate one's depression symptoms and help to relegate their emotions better. An article on HealthEssentials explains that experts believe changes in your exposure to sunlight can trigger Seasonal Affective Disorder. Thus, exposure to bright light in a therapeutic setting may prove beneficial.
Make Plans with Family or Friends
The fall and winter months can be challenging due to weather conditions. However, there is an opportunity for individuals in treatment to get out of the house and try new things. The distraction can help individuals step away from their thoughts and focus on engaging in other activities.
If you or someone you love is struggling with an eating disorder or Seasonal Affective Disorder, it is vital to see expert medical care. These conditions are severe, but with the proper treatment and support, those affected can experience whole and happy lives.
At BALANCE eating disorder treatment center™, our compassionate, highly skilled team of clinicians is trained in diagnosing and treating the spectrum of eating disorders, including anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, compulsive overeating, and other disordered eating behaviors and body image issues. In addition to our full-time Day Treatment Program and Weeknight Intensive Outpatient Program, we offer high-quality programming, nutrition counseling with a licensed dietitian, meal support, and various other groups and resources to help those seeking help for food concerns.
Our admissions team would be happy to answer any questions you may have about our programs and services. Book a free consultation call with our admissions team below, or read more about our philosophy here.
This post was written by BALANCE Blog Contributor, Regina Colie (she/her).
Regina Colie is currently pursuing her Masters in General Psychology at The New School For Social Research. She is interested in working with women who have eating disorders and postpartum depression. Upon her graduation from Marymount Manhattan College, she had the opportunity to be published in Dr. Nava Silton’s book, The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Child, Adolescent, and Adult Development. Her previous work has been featured in Project HEAL, BALANCE, Olive Branch Nutrition, and Nourishing NY.
References
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). (n.d.). American Psychiatric Association. Retrieved May 15, 2022, from https://psychiatry.org/patients-families/seasonal-affective-disorder
Mahoney, B. (2021, October 12). Seasonal Depression and the Link to Eating Disorders. Center For Discovery. Retrieved May 15, 2022, from https://centerfordiscovery.com/blog/seasonal-depression-around-holidays-link-eating-disorders/
Team, B. A. S. (2022, March 10). 3 Strategies to Fight Seasonal Affective Disorder. Cleveland Clinic. Retrieved May 16, 2022, from https://health.clevelandclinic.org/3-best-strategies-help-fight-seasonal-affective-disorder/