Seasonal Depression & Grief

The days are getting shorter, and the weather is getting colder. With the shorter days and colder nights comes the creeping in of Seasonal depression. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), or seasonal depression, can be a challenge for those living with it. After the loss of a loved one, your seasonal depression can amplify and worsen your grief. This article will discuss the challenges of dealing with SAD and grief together.

Seasonal Depression

Seasonal Affective Disorder is a bodily reaction to the seasonal changes of fall and winter. While the exact causes of SAD are unknown, many studies suggest that it may be brought on by hormonal changes and changes to the circadian rhythm. Shorter days and less sunlight exposure can affect your body’s natural cycles, cause a drop in serotonin, and affect melatonin production.
Symptoms of seasonal affective disorder can vary by person. But common symptoms can include:

• Low energy
• Fatigue
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Poor concentration
• Sadness
• Hopelessness
• Changes in appetite
• Low self-esteem
• Reduced sex drive
• Lower social battery
• Increased stress
• Anxiety

Grief and Seasonal Affective Disorder

Grief from a major loss, big changes in your life, or other traumatic occurrences. When grief coincides with SAD, it can be harder for individuals to handle their new situation. Grief can manifest in a variety of ways. But loss when you are already dealing with seasonal depression can feel more impactful. For many people, seasonal depression can pull them back into grief as the seasons change. 

Grief, SAD, and Winter Holidays

Grief can often be brought on by the approach of the winter holidays. Family traditions and gatherings can often remind us of those we lost. And while these holidays are often cheery occasions, our grief can make them more challenging. For those living with SAD, the holiday season can often be a light in the dark. But with compounding grief after a loss, the holidays can feel bittersweet. When preparing for the approaching holidays, consider looking for ways to channel your grief into something positive for your family. Honor the loss of your loved one by remembering all of the good times you had together during the holidays.

Winter Holidays and Approaching Traditions During Grief

Grief can affect everyone differently. Discuss with your loved ones how your loss may affect your shared traditions. Because grief can affect people very differently, you may all have different feelings on how to proceed. Some may want a smaller, more intimate celebration. Others may want to be surrounded by family. Both are valid options. Try to find a compromise that works. 
You can also take this chance to consider the traditions of your family gatherings. Which are worth continuing? What traditions do you not want to lose with the death of your loved one? Were there certain dishes that your loved one was in charge of? Who will make that dish now?  As a family, figuring out how to proceed with holiday traditions can be an important consideration. These steps can also be cathartic to some people. 

Substance/Alcohol Use and Altered Emotional States

It is important to remember that alcohol and other controlled substances can affect you and your emotional state. These substances can have a more detrimental effect on those dealing with grief or depressive episodes. Additionally, it is much easier to slip into abusive cycles with drugs and alcohol while in an altered emotional state. As alcohol can be a mainstay of holiday gatherings, it can be important to consider how it may affect you now. Consider abstaining or pacing yourself more than usual, if need be.

Taking Care of Your Emotional Needs During Seasonal Depression & Grief

It is important to consider your emotional well-being while dealing with grief and SAD. Find ways to make yourself feel happy. Look for ways to reduce stress. Spend time with loved ones. Don’t be afraid to cry or show emotion. Also, consider reaching out to a trusted loved one for support. 
If you feel comfortable doing so, consider seeking professional help. A licensed therapist, psychiatrist, or counselor can help you manage your feelings of grief and seasonal affective disorder. 

The author of this post is not a professional therapist or counselor. For more personalized grief care, find a grief counselor who is right for you. For our Grief Resource Center, written by Dr. Bill Webster, click here. 
For over 50 years, Matthew Funeral Home has been serving the Staten Island community. We can help with almost every aspect of your loved one’s memorial service. Our family is here to serve yours, every step of the way.