Seasonal Depression Symptoms & Relief | Houston, TX

As the seasons change, so can your mood. For many people, shorter days and colder weather bring more than just a chill — they can trigger Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), commonly known as seasonal depression.

This condition is more common than many realize, and recognizing the signs early can make a big difference in how you feel throughout the fall and winter months. The good news? There are effective ways to manage it — and with the right care, you can start feeling like yourself again.

What Is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)?

Seasonal Affective Disorder is a form of depression that follows a seasonal pattern, typically appearing during late fall and winter when daylight hours are shorter. Reduced sunlight can disrupt your body’s internal clock, lower serotonin levels, and affect the hormones that regulate sleep and mood.

At Houston Concierge Medicine, Dr. Gregory Burzynski and his team take a holistic approach to understanding how seasonal changes impact both your physical and emotional health. By identifying underlying causes and providing personalized treatment, we help patients navigate these months with more balance and resilience.

Signs to Watch For

While everyone can experience the occasional “winter blues,” seasonal depression tends to last longer and feel more intense. Common symptoms include:

• Low energy or constant fatigue

• Changes in sleep patterns, such as sleeping too much or too little

• Increased cravings for carbohydrates or changes in weight

• Difficulty concentrating or staying motivated

• Loss of interest in activities you normally enjoy

• Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or social withdrawal

If these signs sound familiar, you’re not alone. SAD affects millions of adults in the U.S. each year, but with the right support, it’s highly treatable. Dr. Gregory Burzynski offers a confidential and compassionate evaluation and treatment. 

Why Seasonal Depression Happens

The exact cause of Seasonal Affective Disorder isn’t fully understood, but several factors can contribute:

• Reduced Sunlight Exposure: Shorter days mean less natural light, which can lower serotonin levels and disrupt your internal rhythm.

• Chemical Imbalance: Changes in neurotransmitters like serotonin and melatonin can influence mood, energy, and sleep patterns.

• Biological Clock Disruption: Your circadian rhythm — the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle — can become misaligned during darker months.

• Environmental Factors: Cold temperatures, gray skies, and spending more time indoors can lead to reduced motivation and emotional well-being.

Dr. Gregory Burzynski and the team at Houston Concierge Medicine provide expert support for patients experiencing seasonal depression, helping them identify symptoms and create an effective care plan. Seasonal depression is not a weakness — it’s a natural biological reaction to shifting seasons.

Strategies to Manage and Prevent Seasonal Depression

Managing SAD often requires a blend of lifestyle adjustments, medical guidance, and emotional support. The Houston Concierge Medicine team recommends:

• Prioritize Sunlight and Fresh Air: Spend time outdoors, especially midday. Even brief exposure to natural light can boost mood and help regulate your internal clock.

• Stay Physically Active: Regular movement — walking, stretching, or home workouts — releases endorphins and helps reduce depressive symptoms.

• Maintain a Balanced Diet: Choose nutrient-rich foods like leafy greens, omega-3s, whole grains, and lean proteins to support brain health. Stay hydrated and limit processed or sugary foods.

• Create a Consistent Sleep Routine: Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep and maintain regular bed and wake times to stabilize mood and energy.

• Try Light Therapy: A light therapy box that mimics natural sunlight can help improve mood and energy when used under professional guidance from a physician like Dr. Gregory Burzynski.

• Seek Professional Support: If symptoms persist, professional care can make a difference through therapy, medication, or a personalized wellness plan.

How Houston Concierge Medicine Can Help

At Houston Concierge Medicine, we understand that seasonal depression affects more than just your mood — it can influence energy, focus, relationships, and overall quality of life. Dr. Gregory Burzynski and his team take a compassionate, individualized approach to care.

We take time to:

• Evaluate your symptoms and lifestyle patterns

• Identify contributing factors such as vitamin D deficiency or disrupted sleep

• Develop a tailored plan that may include light therapy, nutritional guidance, or medication when appropriate

Our goal is to help you find balance and relief through evidence-based, patient-centered care — so you can move through the seasons feeling your best.

Take the Next Step Toward Better Mental Health

If you’ve noticed your mood shifting with the seasons, don’t wait to seek support. Seasonal depression is common, but with the right care, it’s absolutely manageable.

At Houston Concierge Medicine, Dr. Gregory Burzynski and his team are here to help you reclaim your energy, clarity, and peace of mind.