Talk To Your Counselor About Nighttime Depression

Depression is one of the most common mood disorders, and it can impact anybody. In fact, many people live with depression before realizing that's what it is. You may have noticed that your symptoms tend to increase when it gets dark in the evening. You might have even considered seeing a counselor or therapist about this depression. Understanding nighttime depression is a good decision at this time.

What Are Symptoms of Nighttime Depression?

Symptoms of depression may include insomnia, changes in appetite, feelings of hopelessness, social isolation, and anxiety. People with depression often lose interest in the activities they used to enjoy, and they may exhibit a lack of energy as a result.

Other symptoms include irritability, headaches, crying, restlessness, and difficulty focusing on the task at hand. Some people also develop suicidal thoughts. As you can see, symptoms range in terms of severity and intensity.

What Causes Nighttime Depression?

Several things can lead to worsening depression at night. Your circumstances may vary based on your physical and emotional circumstances.

Rumination is one major reason why depression worsens at the end of the day. Isolation can also prompt increased rumination, which means that you might experience more of this symptom in the evening if you live alone.

Light exposure may also have something to do with depression. While some people have seasonal depression, others might experience more depression at night rather than in the darker seasons.

Your specific preference could also play a role. Perhaps you don't enjoy nighttime or the activities that come with it, like going home. This could certainly contribute to your state of mind.

How Can You Deal with Nighttime Depression?

There are several ways to cope when nighttime depression sets in. In the moment, you may need to take a proactive approach. First, taking part in a hobby you love is a great way to shake off the symptoms as they set in. Some people like exercise, including going to a fitness class in the evening.

Boosting self-esteem is also helpful for many types of depression. You benefit from growing stronger in your sense of self-worth, which you can do by becoming more confident in yourself socially, physically, and emotionally.

You might also consider therapy. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a fantastic tool for treating depression. Counseling with a therapist is a great way to see changes to your mindset, especially when darkness begins to roll in.

For more information on depression, reach out to a counselor in your area.

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