Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a form of depression linked to reduced sunlight exposure in fall and winter. Symptoms include fatigue, sadness, and social withdrawal, which can interfere with daily life. Treatment options like light therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms. Recognizing SAD and seeking support can improve mental health during seasonal changes.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression linked to seasonal changes, often emerging in winter. Symptoms include sadness, fatigue, and social withdrawal. Treatment options include light therapy, psychotherapy, and, for some, medication. Understanding and addressing SAD can help individuals maintain mental health during darker months.

Perinatal depression is a mood disorder that affects women during pregnancy or after childbirth. Symptoms can range from sadness and fatigue to severe mood swings that interfere with daily activities. Unlike the short-lasting “baby blues,” perinatal depression may require professional treatment, such as therapy or medication. Seeking help early can improve both the mother’s and baby’s well-being.

Panic disorder is characterized by sudden and intense panic attacks, often with physical symptoms like rapid heart rate, sweating, and difficulty breathing. These attacks can occur unexpectedly, leading to ongoing fear of future episodes. Treatments include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and medications, which can help manage symptoms and improve daily functioning.

PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections) is a condition that arises in children after a strep infection. Symptoms can include sudden onset of OCD, tics, and mood changes. These episodes often improve with treatment for the strep infection but may recur with subsequent infections. Diagnosis is clinical, and treatment includes antibiotics, cognitive behavioral therapy, and, in severe cases, immune therapies.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) involves intrusive, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) that interfere with daily life. Common obsessions include fears of contamination or harm, while compulsions often involve actions like excessive handwashing or checking. OCD can be managed with treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication, helping individuals reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.

If you’re unsure whether you need help for your mental health, consider how long your symptoms have lasted and their impact on your daily life. Mild symptoms lasting less than two weeks may improve with self-care, while more severe symptoms lasting two weeks or more, such as difficulty sleeping or thoughts of self-harm, may require professional help. Treatment options include therapy, medication, and other support resources.

Genes, along with environmental and biological factors, play a role in mental health. While most genetic variants don’t directly cause mental disorders, some rare gene variants can increase the risk. Genetic testing can’t yet predict the risk of developing a mental disorder, but it may improve in the future. Understanding your family health history can also offer insights into mental health risks.