WTEN: Women’s Health — Seasonal Depression

Joseph Di Lullo, M.D., a psychiatrist with Samaritan Hospital’s Outpatient Behavioral Health Clinic in Troy, was interviewed by WTEN/News10 about seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and its impact on women.

Di Lullo, a psychiatrist at Samaritan Hospital’s Outpatient Behavioral Health Clinic in Troy, said SAD is almost like hibernation for humans. If people notice they are experiencing slight symptoms, it could due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Humans are social beings, and he said it’s difficult to be quarantined for long periods.

SAD can be fought by engaging in self-care. Neutralizing negative thoughts by focusing on being grateful, a healthy diet, and exercise can all help with SAD, Dr. Di Lullo said. He suggests keeping a mood log that tracks food intake along with feelings. He also suggests that women make time for themselves.

Click here to watch WTEN’s full report and learn more about the symptoms of SAD.