The days are getting shorter, and the temperatures are dropping. Do you feel like your mood shifts when this happens every year? You’re not alone, especially during drug rehab in AZ. For some, the change is subtle. But for others, there’s a far more significant struggle lurking around the corner—Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
If you’re in recovery, managing SAD can feel incredibly challenging. However, understanding how it works and recognizing the signs can make a huge difference in maintaining sobriety.
It’s important to know you have support during these times, and that’s where our drug rehab in AZ comes in. At Desert Cove Recovery, we are committed to helping you stay sober. So join us as we discuss Seasonal Affective Disorder, and don’t hesitate to reach out to our caring team.
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What Is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)?
SAD is a form of depression that kicks in during certain times of the year—most often during the fall and winter months. You’re likely feeling more fatigued, your motivation might drop, and your cravings for comfort foods skyrocket.[1]
The shorter days and reduced sunlight can throw your body’s natural rhythms out of sync, impacting your mood and energy levels. But if you’re recovering from substance use, these shifts in mood can become a trigger for relapse. So, it’s vital to take control of this seasonal depression.
How SAD Can Affect Your Recovery
When you’re dealing with symptoms of SAD, you’re not just feeling down (although that’s certainly part of it). The effects are much more profound. Depression can lead to isolation, loss of interest in things you used to enjoy, and even feelings of hopelessness.
Add to that the stress of maintaining sobriety, and it’s clear why this time of year can be challenging for those in recovery. Without treatment, SAD can create a dangerous cycle. Are you feeling low? Some turn to drugs or alcohol as a quick fix to manage the emotional toll.
While that might seem like an easy way out in the moment, it only worsens things in the long run—substance abuse is a fast track to making depressive symptoms even more severe.
Signs of SAD to Watch For
Recognizing the symptoms of SAD early is necessary if you hope to manage it alongside your recovery. If you notice any of these signs creeping up, it’s time to take action:
- Constant fatigue or lack of energy, even after a full night’s sleep
- Trouble concentrating or staying focused
- Sleeping too much or experiencing difficulty falling asleep
- Weight gain or unusual cravings for carbs and sugary foods
- Feelings of hopelessness, guilt, or sadness that seem to linger
- Withdrawal from social activities and relationships
Being aware of these symptoms can help you catch SAD before it starts to interfere with your progress in recovery. Our rehab in Arizona at Desert Cove Recovery is designed to equip you with the tools and resources needed to manage the mental illness symptoms of SAD and substance use disorders.
We urge you to contact us immediately the moment you suspect something is wrong with your emotions. Taking swift action could save your life.
Why Substance Use and SAD Go Hand in Hand
It’s no surprise that mental health conditions and substance use disorders often go together. They feed off each other. When you’re dealing with SAD, your brain’s serotonin levels can drop, leading to a chemical imbalance that affects your mood.[2]
To combat these feelings of depression or anxiety, many people reach for a drink or other substances. Unfortunately, drugs and alcohol provide a false sense of relief. Sure, they might give you a temporary boost, but once that wears off, you feel worse.
For those in recovery, this makes it even harder to resist the temptation to use, especially during the colder months when SAD is most prevalent.
Coping with SAD While Staying Sober During Drug Rehab in AZ
So, how do you manage the symptoms of SAD without turning to drugs or alcohol? While it may feel overwhelming at times, there are practical steps you can take to stay on track with your recovery.
Maximize Your Exposure to Natural Light
Light plays a huge role in regulating your mood. Try to spend time outside during the day, even if it’s just for a short walk. If you’re not getting enough sunlight, consider using a light therapy box—a proven method for helping to ease the symptoms of SAD.
Stay Active
Physical activity can be a powerful mood booster. It doesn’t have to be intense—walking, yoga, or stretching can all help release endorphins and improve mental well-being.
Stick to a Routine
Routines are vital for those in recovery and just as important for managing SAD. Keeping a regular sleep schedule, staying connected with friends and support groups, and maintaining hobbies can provide stability when everything else feels out of balance.
Reach Out for Help with A Drug Rehab in AZ
Sometimes, managing SAD on your own isn’t enough. That’s okay. Contact a counselor, therapist, or recovery team if you’re struggling. At Desert Cove Recovery, we’re here to help you manage the ups and downs of sobriety and mental health challenges like SAD.
Drug Rehab in AZ: Treatment Options for SAD and Substance Use
At Desert Cove Recovery, we offer personalized treatment options designed to support individuals struggling with both substance use disorders and mental health conditions like SAD.
Our outpatient services combine traditional methods, such as the 12-step program, with modern therapies tailored to your needs. We understand that no two people are the same, and your treatment should reflect that.
Our holistic approach incorporates cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other tools to help you manage both your addiction and the emotional impact of SAD. You can achieve a more stable recovery and better mental health by addressing both issues simultaneously.
Connect with Our Drug Rehab in AZ Today
Whether you’re managing SAD or another mental health condition while in recovery, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. Seasonal changes can be challenging, but with the right tools, you can protect your mental health and stay sober through the winter months and beyond.
Are you ready to take the next step in your recovery? Desert Cove Recovery’s drug rehab in AZ is here to help you overcome the challenges of addiction and mental health. Contact us today to learn more about our outpatient programs and how we can support your journey toward long-term sobriety.
Sources:
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK568745/ [2] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23329523/
