CLAY COUNTY - Although this time of year comes with the spirit of holiday joy, sadness could still linger.

That’s why LSF Health Systems CEO Christine Cauffield said seeking help this winter season is essential. 

In what is called seasonal affective disorder (SAD), millions of individuals experience shifts in mood and behavior with the changing weather periods, according to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). It most commonly affects women and young adults and co-occurs every year.

Cauffield said one leading cause of winter-pattern SAD is lack of sunlight.

The NIMH said sunlight affects molecules that help humans maintain normal serotonin levels, a chemical that affects mood cognition. The shorter daylight hours we experience this time of year may prevent these molecules from functioning correctly.

“Many people are affected by seasonal affective disorder, where they feel depressed moods and have some of the typical symptoms of depression,” Cauffield said. “Such as lack of energy [and] lack of interest in previously enjoyable activities.”

SAD symptoms could also include restlessness, oversleeping, anxiety and physical aches, according to NIMH.

The disorder, although not full-blown clinical depression, can become more serious if not treated, which is why Cauffield said it’s essential to seek help accordingly.

“Oftentimes, it lifts when the weather lifts, if you will,” she said. “And when we move into more sunlight as the seasons change. But, if these kinds of symptoms persist for longer than two weeks, then it’s time to really check in and get some professional help and see if this may have moved into a clinical depression.” 

Also, at this time of year, Cauffield said it is common to experience the general ‘holiday blues’. This can be caused by stress, negative holiday memories or isolation from family. Although difficult, these feelings are more so common and only temporary. 

She said it’s essential to decipher the difference between the two. Is it something you always feel or only at certain times of the year? Cauffield said asking yourself these questions can help give a clear answer to the type of assistance you may need. 

“The deciding factor, really, is how long the symptoms have been occuring, ”she said. “For example, holiday blues are different in that they can be triggered or exacerbated by mental health conditions that you may already be experiencing, such as depression or anxiety.” 

She said that if you experience feelings such as daily sadness, lack of interest in past enjoyments, loss of weight or recurring thoughts of death or suicide every day for up to two weeks, it’s time to get professional help. 

At LSF Health Systems, Caulfield said they provide 24/7 access to a care line operated by their clinical team. She said the line is free and can be reached at (877) 229-9098.

“You can call again, day or night, and our clinical provider will answer and listen to what is going on with you,” she said. “And, then, connect you to resources in the community that can help.” 

She urged anyone experiencing suicidal ideation to call or text 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

Additionally, the Clay Behavioral Health Center offers a range of mental health support, including 24/7 emergency services and in-home mental health counseling.

For a list of complete LSF Health or Clay Behavioral mental health support services, visit lsfhealthsystems.org/ or ccbhc.org/.