For some, less sun and colder months bring on seasonal depression

BOSTON — It’s that time of year when we turn back the clocks, and the days get darker and faster.

And for Cassandra Crichlow, who copes with seasonal depression, this is not the best season.

“They said the sun was going to set today at like 4 or something, which is really sad,” she said. “I definitely notice a change in my mood and energy level.”

She’s not alone.

According to Thriveworks, a nationwide counseling chain, Boston is among 15 cities with the highest seasonal depression.

Ronald Willey also copes with seasonal depression.

“In the past, I did have seasonal depression,” he said. “Terrible, they affect my stomach. They affect a lot of things with me, mentally.”

Dr. George James, a marriage and family therapist, says up to 10 percent of the population struggles with seasonal affective disorder, also known as seasonal depression, but there are ways you can cope with it.

“Keep active, whether it is to walk or get up and do some things,” James said. “Lots of times, people can have what is called light therapy, where they might have this system that you can buy that allows them to be able to receive an extra amount of light.”

For others, it’s their furry friends that get them through.

“She just has unconditional love for her owner,” he said of his pet.

Crichlow is looking forward to next year, when we “spring forward.”

“Just waiting for the spring forward already,” she said.

Whatever you do, doctors say to stay engaged with family and friends, especially during this time.

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