How is seasonal affective disorder linked to substance use disorder?
How is seasonal affective disorder linked to substance use disorder?
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is sometimes flung around casually in conversation. But it鈥檚 more than just feeling sad when the winter and darker days set in.
SAD is classified as a with a seasonal pattern. About , including SAD, deal with addiction.
Similarly, if you have bipolar disorder, seasonally. Women are also more likely to develop SAD. Professional support can help you manage the overlapping symptoms of SAD and SUD. In this article, covers the relationship between the two disorders.
Key Takeaways
- Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and substance use disorder (SUD) often co-occur.
- Wintertime and diminishing light can bring on SAD symptoms.
- A mix of social and professional support can help treat SAD and SUD.
Can weather impact SUD?
As you experience fewer daylight hours and colder temperatures, you might find yourself often having a drink after work or frequently visiting bars with friends. This isn鈥檛 your imagination. A study found that, globally, as temperatures and the hours of sunlight decrease, .
Drinking can also make you feel warmer because it temporarily . In colder climates, this could 鈥 along with the temporary euphoric feeling that alcohol can bring.
Cold and dark weather can also cause to plunge. This neurotransmitter can make you feel happy and emotionally stable. (known as the 鈥渉appy hormone鈥), which might lead to improved moods for a temporary period.
Seasonal and light changes, and artificial ones too 鈥 like daylight saving time 鈥 can disrupt circadian rhythms. These changes to our internal body clocks can or .
Does seasonal depression lead to increased substance use?
The relationship between and can result in a harmful cycle. If you feel down during the winter, you might turn to alcohol to feel better. But drinking can make your SAD symptoms worse because alcohol is a depressant.
Alcohol and other types of chemical intoxication can make depression more severe. You might experience more , as well as worsening negative thoughts and self-destructive behavior.
Substances like alcohol, , and . If you鈥檝e hit a winter low, you might want the boost that substances can provide.
But when people use a drug continuously, or feel the effects of it at all. Sometimes, it may be the only thing that makes them feel good. Not only that, but heavily using substances like weed can . This is where substance use disorder can start.
Coping with SUD when seasons change
Even if you want to stop using a substance, it can be difficult or impossible without outside help if you鈥檙e addicted to it. The situation can be made worse if you鈥檙e using substances in an attempt to improve your SAD. In fact, research shows that drugs and alcohol usually make people鈥檚 mental health symptoms worse.
These strategies can help you address your substance use and feel better during the winter months.
- Tell someone. Confide in a trusted family or friend about your co-occurring SAD and substance use.
- Avoid social activities that encourage substance use. While difficult, if you want to stop using a certain substance, avoid friends and scenarios that center around alcohol or drug use.
- Find support groups. Groups like Alcoholics Anonymous or SAD support groups can help replace the socialization you may lose while also providing mental health and community support.
- Maintain healthy habits. A consistent sleep schedule, exercise, and a nourishing diet can all support your mental health. In the winter, usual go-to activities like swimming or golf might be replaced by indoor activities like a dance or spinning class.
- Identify triggers. Reflect on the situations, people, and other factors that might worsen your SAD or cause you to turn to a certain substance. Then, either on your own or with a friend or therapist, come up with ways to avoid it.
Treating SUD and SAD
If you struggle with co-occurring SUD and SAD, there are effective treatments that can help you thrive.
Substance use disorder treatment options can include:
- Detox program: These programs help you with withdrawal symptoms 鈥 both physical and mental.
- Inpatient program: These programs offer 24/7 support, with people living in a rehabilitation facility for weeks or months (often 30 days). Support can include drug withdrawal support, therapy, medication administration, and how to prepare to live drug-free after the program ends.
- Behavior therapy: , suggest ways to avoid drugs, offer recommendations if you relapse, and bring in your family to help support you.
- Self-help groups: After an inpatient program, you may still need ongoing peer support. This is where self-help groups can come in. You can surround yourself with people who understand what it鈥檚 like to have a substance use disorder like alcohol use disorder.
SAD treatment options can include:
- Light therapy: SAD can mimic the sunlight that鈥檚 often missing during the wintertime. Typically, people sit in front of the lamp for about 30 minutes at the beginning of the day. It鈥檚 not recommended to use light therapy at night, as this can disrupt your sleep schedule.
- Talk therapy: Therapy, like , can help you recognize false and distorted views resulting from depression. Transforming these thoughts into helpful ones can also help you improve the relationships in your life, which can lift your mood.
- Medication: Medications like antidepressants can help with SAD, especially with more severe cases. Always consult with a qualified health provider first if you want to explore medication.
Clinician's take
鈥淲orking with a professional can help you identify daily triggers and build out strategies for prevention. This can be a great way to adjust your lifestyle for recovery,鈥 saysAshley Ayala, a licensed marriage and family therapist.
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