Fortunately, in Brookings we get a lot more sun than the average coastal Oregon city, but winters can still be cold and dreary. The overcast weather and fog can make anyone feel a bit sleepy occasionally, but some people struggle with it much more than others.

When caring for a loved one in hospice during winter months, it can be challenging to distinguish between different types of mood changes your loved one may be experiencng. While some fatigue and sadness are natural parts of both aging and the hospice journey, seasonal depression can add an extra layer of difficulty for your loved one. Understanding these differences can help you ensure they receive appropriate support during the darker winter months.

Understanding Different Types of Depression

Hospice patients often experience natural feelings of sadness or depression as they process their situation. They may also feel increased physical fatigue as their illness progresses. However, seasonal depression - also known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) - brings its own distinct patterns and symptoms that typically begin in late fall and continue through winter.

Signs Specific to Seasonal Depression

While general hospice-related depression tends to remain consistent regardless of season, seasonal depression often shows distinct patterns. Watch for changes that specifically occur or worsen during winter months, such as increased irritability in the afternoons, a sudden desire to avoid social interaction, or pronounced difficulty waking up in the morning. Your loved one might also show increased appetite, particularly for carbohydrate-rich foods - a pattern less common in general depression.

Physical Changes to Notice

Beyond mood changes, seasonal depression can cause physical symptoms that aren't typically associated with standard hospice fatigue. These might include heaviness in the arms and legs that noticeably worsens on dark days, changes in sleep patterns beyond their usual fatigue, or difficulty concentrating that seems worse on cloudy days and improves on sunny ones.

The Impact of Reduced Sunlight

Many hospice patients spend significant time indoors, making them particularly vulnerable to seasonal depression. The reduced exposure to natural light can disrupt their circadian rhythms beyond the changes caused by their illness. If you notice your loved one seems more withdrawn or fatigued specifically during darker hours of the day, seasonal depression might be a factor.

When to Seek Additional Support

If you notice these seasonal patterns in your loved one's mood or behavior, discuss them with your hospice care team. Our nurses and social workers are trained to help distinguish between different types of depression and can recommend appropriate interventions. Sometimes simple changes, like positioning their bed near a window or using light therapy under medical supervision, can make a significant difference.

Creating a Supportive Environment

While you can't change the seasons, you can help create an environment that supports better mental health during winter months. Keep your loved one's room well-lit during the day. If possible, position their bed or favorite chair near a window to maximize natural light exposure. Consider opening curtains fully during daylight hours and maintaining a warm, comfortable room temperature.

You can also consider purchasing a daylight-simulating lamp. These lamps are commonly used by people with SAD, and simulate the color and brightness of sunlight.

Maintaining Connection

Social isolation can worsen any type of depression, but it's particularly challenging during winter months when weather might limit visitors. Regular social interaction remains important. Even brief visits, phone calls, or video chats can help maintain vital connections and provide emotional support during darker days.

Working with Your Care Team

Our hospice team understands the complexity of managing depression in hospice patients. If you suspect your loved one is experiencing seasonal depression, we can help evaluate their symptoms and suggest appropriate interventions. Sometimes small changes in their care plan can make a significant difference in their comfort and quality of life during winter months.

Remember, seeking help for possible seasonal depression isn't about adding another diagnosis to manage - it's about ensuring your loved one receives the most appropriate and effective support during their hospice journey. Our care team is here to help you navigate these challenges and provide the best possible care for your loved one during every season.