Seasonal depression in the Bay Area fog
Why shorter, grayer days can affect mood, and practical ways to protect your energy through the season.
Earl Johns, MSN, PMHNP-BC
Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and founder of Wellthy Psychiatry & Wellness
✓ Medically reviewed by Earl Johns, MSN, PMHNP-BC
Fog that never lifts, early sunsets and long gray stretches. Even in California, the seasons can take a toll on mood. Here’s how to tell if it’s seasonal depression, and what helps.
What seasonal depression is
Seasonal affective disorder, often called SAD, is depression that follows a seasonal pattern. It most often starts in fall or winter and lifts in spring. Less daylight can shift your body clock and brain chemistry, affecting sleep, energy and mood.
Common signs
Sleeping more but still feeling tired, craving carbs, pulling away from friends and feeling heavy or slowed down are common. Symptoms usually return around the same time each year.
Light and routine
Get outside in the morning, even on cloudy days. Keep a steady wake time. A light therapy box can help many people, but check with your provider first, especially if you have a history of bipolar disorder or eye conditions.
When to get help
If the season is affecting your work, relationships or ability to enjoy life, reach out. Therapy, light therapy and medication can all play a role, and starting before symptoms peak can make the season easier.
A gentle next step
A free 15-minute phone consult is an easy way to see if Wellthy Psychiatry feels like the right fit for you.
This article is for general education and isn’t medical advice. If you’re in crisis, call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or call 911.
About the author
Earl Johns, MSN, PMHNP-BC
Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner · UCSF-trained · Founder of Wellthy Psychiatry & Wellness
Earl provides LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent-affirming psychiatric care, blending medication management, therapy and whole-person approaches. He sees clients in San Francisco and by telehealth across California.
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