As the seasons change, many people experience shifts in mood and energy levels. For some, these changes go beyond the typical “winter blues” and evolve into a more severe form of depression known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). At Asbury Counseling, we understand how challenging this can be, especially when it begins to impact important areas of life like your work performance and relationships. Whether you’re in Akron, Columbus, Cincinnati or anywhere in Ohio, our telehealth counseling services are designed to support you through these difficult months and beyond.
What is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)?
SAD is a type of depression that is linked to the change in seasons, most often occurring in the late fall and winter months. The shorter days and reduced sunlight can disrupt your body’s internal clock, leading to a dip in mood, energy, and motivation. While everyone may feel less enthusiastic during gloomy weather, people with SAD experience these symptoms much more intensely, making everyday life more difficult to manage.
Common symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder include:
- Persistent sadness or low mood
- Fatigue and low energy, even after plenty of sleep
- Difficulty concentrating or staying productive
- Increased irritability or anxiety
- Withdrawal from social activities or relationships
- Changes in appetite, often craving carbohydrates and gaining weight
How SAD Can Impact Your Work
For individuals in Ohio, especially those working remotely or in office settings where sunlight is scarce during the winter months, SAD can create significant challenges. You might find it harder to focus on tasks, experience lower motivation, or have difficulty meeting deadlines. Fatigue and irritability can also strain interactions with colleagues and supervisors, potentially leading to misunderstandings or a decrease in overall job performance.
SAD and Its Effect on Marriages and Relationships
Beyond the workplace, SAD can also take a toll on your personal relationships, especially your marriage. Depression can make it hard to communicate effectively, and irritability may lead to increased conflicts or emotional distancing. You might find yourself withdrawing from your spouse or partner, avoiding social activities, or feeling less connected than usual. When one partner struggles with SAD, the other may feel helpless or frustrated, which can lead to tension in the relationship.
At Asbury Counseling, we believe that addressing the root cause of these challenges—whether in the workplace or at home—requires professional support and strategies that work. For those in Ohio, we offer telehealth counseling tailored to help you manage SAD and navigate its impact on both your career and your relationships.
How Counseling Can Help with Seasonal Affective Disorder
If you're feeling overwhelmed by the effects of SAD, working with a therapist can provide the guidance and support you need. At Asbury Counseling, we focus on helping clients manage the symptoms of SAD through a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness techniques, and behavioral activation. Our approach helps clients identify negative thought patterns, improve emotional regulation, and re-engage with meaningful activities that bring joy and satisfaction to life.
For those struggling to balance the demands of work and home, our counseling services offer practical solutions to:
- Rebuild communication and emotional intimacy in marriages affected by SAD
- Develop coping strategies to maintain productivity and reduce work-related stress
- Manage irritability, mood swings, and low energy in ways that improve both personal and professional relationships
Telehealth Counseling for SAD in Ohio
Whether you're located in Akron, Cleveland, or anywhere across Ohio, our telehealth counseling services are accessible and flexible to fit into your busy schedule. Telehealth allows you to receive the help you need from the comfort of your home, making it easier to engage in therapy without the additional stress of commuting or scheduling conflicts.
For those with SAD, the convenience of telehealth is especially helpful, as it allows you to stay consistent with your mental health care, even on days when you may feel too drained to leave the house.
Accepted Insurance Plans: Making Counseling Accessible
We believe that getting help for Seasonal Affective Disorder should be as accessible as possible, which is why we accept a wide range of insurance plans. If you're concerned about the cost of counseling, rest assured that we are in-network with most major providers, including:
- Aetna
- United Healthcare
- Medical Mutual of Ohio
- Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Cigna
- Optum
These insurance options make it easier for clients to access high-quality mental health care without overwhelming out-of-pocket expenses. If you’re unsure about your coverage, our team is happy to help you verify benefits and explore your options.
Getting Started with Asbury Counseling
If you think you may be experiencing Seasonal Affective Disorder and its impact on your work or marriage, we encourage you to reach out and schedule an appointment with Asbury Counseling. Our telehealth services are designed to meet you where you are, offering flexibility and convenience for Ohio residents. We provide a free 15-minute consultation for new clients to discuss your needs and see if we’re a good fit.
Let us help you navigate these difficult months and reclaim a sense of balance in both your personal and professional life.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
To learn more about our telehealth services or to schedule your first appointment, you can visit our profiles on Psychology Today or Zocdoc for easy online booking. Don’t let Seasonal Affective Disorder hold you back—start your journey to better mental health today!