What is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)?
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that follows a seasonal pattern, often occurring during fall and winter months when daylight is limited. SAD can significantly affect mood, energy, and daily functioning, but it is treatable with evidence-based interventions.
Common symptoms include:
- Persistent low mood, sadness, or irritability
- Fatigue or low energy, even after adequate rest
- Changes in sleep patterns, often oversleeping
- Increased appetite or weight gain, often craving carbohydrates
- Difficulty concentrating or decreased motivation
- Social withdrawal or loss of interest in activities
SAD is more than just “winter blues”—it is a neurologically and biologically influenced condition that can disrupt life and relationships without proper support.
Who struggles with Seasonal Affective Disorder?
SAD can affect adults, adolescents, and even children, particularly in regions with reduced sunlight during winter. Those at higher risk include:
- Individuals with a personal or family history of depression
- People living in northern climates with shorter daylight hours
- Those with a history of mood disorders, anxiety, or bipolar disorder
- Individuals experiencing stress, sleep disruptions, or lifestyle changes
Without treatment, SAD can lead to chronic low mood, poor work performance, and strained relationships, making early intervention essential.
How we treat Seasonal Affective Disorder at Daisy Clinic Therapy & Counseling
At Daisy Clinic, we provide neuroscience-informed, evidence-based therapy to help clients regulate mood, increase energy, and restore overall functioning. Our approach integrates psychotherapy, brain-focused interventions, and lifestyle strategies tailored to each client’s needs.
Our treatment approach includes:
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for SAD
- Identifies negative thought patterns and behavioral triggers
- Develops strategies to counter seasonal mood changes
- Incorporates activity scheduling and behavioral activation to boost energy and engagement
- Neuroscience-Informed Therapy Modalities
- qEEG Neurofeedback: Enhances emotional regulation, focus, and stress resilience
- Neurocognitive Training: Supports executive function and mental clarity during low-energy months
- Mindfulness & Somatic Techniques: Reduces physiological stress, improves mood, and enhances self-awareness
- Light and Lifestyle-Based Strategies
- Guidance on safe exposure to natural sunlight or light therapy alternatives
- Sleep hygiene, diet, and exercise strategies to counter seasonal effects
- Structured routines to maintain energy and motivation
- Trauma-Informed and Emotional Support
- Addresses co-occurring anxiety, depression, or past trauma influencing seasonal mood
- Builds resilience, coping skills, and self-compassion
- Personalized Life Integration
- Tailored strategies for work, school, and social life to reduce seasonal impairment
- Encourages social connection and engagement during challenging seasons
Why choose Daisy Clinic for Seasonal Affective Disorder Therapy?
At Daisy Clinic, we offer personalized, neuroscience-informed care designed to help clients overcome seasonal mood changes and thrive year-round.
- Evidence-based therapies including CBT, neurofeedback, somatic therapy, and mindfulness-based interventions
- In-person therapy at our Bellevue clinic or secure virtual sessions across Washington State
- Insurance, self-pay, and sliding scale options for accessible care
- Customized treatment plans addressing cognitive, emotional, and behavioral aspects of SAD
- Supportive, compassionate environment fostering long-term emotional stability
Take the First Step Toward Year-Round Emotional Balance
Seasonal changes don’t have to dictate your mood. With neuroscience-informed therapy and evidence-based interventions, relief and improved quality of life are achievable.
👉 Contact Daisy Clinic today to schedule a free consultation and explore personalized therapy for Seasonal Affective Disorder.