In late fall, many people experience depression caused by Seasonal Affective Disorder Syndrome. This winter, the depressive background of people prone to this disorder is expected to be exacerbated by the pandemic situation. The New York Times reporter, Jane Broad, tells us about this phenomenon and her own experiences in dealing with it.

During the fall season, when I saw a drastic reduction in day length, I noticed a noticeable decrease in enthusiasm for the fall activities that I had enjoyed in the past. For example, I was no longer interested in homework such as sewing, embroidery, preparing delicious dishes with new recipes, reading books, or watching movies suggested by friends.

I soon realized the reason for this kind of boredom – these feelings were related to the limitations and isolation caused by the pandemic.

The fall season has greatly reduced the number of remote social events and gatherings. People can no longer walk, hang out, exercise, or work outdoors with friends or family. It all makes us feel as if we have lost control of our lives.

It is very difficult to maintain the joy and enthusiasm of life when we are only limited in our ability to socialize with people who can shape our mood. Also, our enthusiasm is greatly diminished by the fact that we can no longer attend interesting cultural or sporting events that would help us escape from the monotonous routine for a while.

Adapting to the myriad of occupational, educational, economic, or social disruptions caused by the pandemic has proved difficult even for people who are generally not prone to depression or melancholy. Consequently, for those who are already experiencing seasonal depression, the short days of late fall and winter this year may have been even more gloomy.

Seasonal Disorder Syndrome, which worsens in the Northern Hemisphere in the fall with a decrease in daylight, is characterized by many of the symptoms that are significant for clinical depression as well. Symptoms include deep sadness, excessive tiredness, lack of concentration, excessive drowsiness, loss of interest in favorite activities, and a tendency to eat starchy and sugary foods, along with weight gain.

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“Do not run out of joy in your life,” Dr. Rosenthal said in response to my words, “We must feel joy every day. This investment will pay off.” It also offers online courses to help you learn how to make jewelry, draw or play an instrument. Also, we should not stop interacting with people. For example, we can make a video call with friends and have tea, coffee or lunch.