The Doctor Is In

Winter means shorter days, colder temperatures and blankets of snow in many of the places TRICARE beneficiaries call home. The season changes can cause feelings of depression in some people. Seasonal affective disorder, also known as SAD, is a form of depression that usually occurs during a particular time of year – and for most people with SAD, this means during the cold, dark months of winter.

Symptoms can begin to surface in late autumn, and can progress throughout the winter. People with SAD may feel sluggish and fatigued more often than usual. They may become excessively irritable or feel unhappy, socially withdraw from personal and professional relationships, and loose interest in their work or other normally enjoyable activities.

The cause of SAD is unknown, but it is thought to be linked to several factors. More people living in places with longer winters experience SAD than in places with shorter winters. Shorter days during winter months mean less exposure to sunlight, which can lead to a drop in serotonin and melatonin levels in the brain. Serotonin and melatonin are the chemicals in the brain responsible for regulating mood and sleep. Other factors may include genetics, hormones and gender.

There are no tests to detect SAD. If you think you may have SAD you should discuss your symptoms with your primary care provider to find out whether you need treatment, and if so, which treatment is best for you.

Treatment options for SAD may include talk therapy or prescription antidepressant medication. Exercise and physical activity may also improve symptoms. While other therapies, such as light therapy, are sometimes used to treat SAD, they may not be covered by TRICARE.

For behavioral health assistance, non-active duty TRICARE Prime beneficiaries can schedule an appointment with a TRICARE network provider without a referral or prior-authorization for the first eight visits of each fiscal year. After the eighth visit, you’ll need prior authorization from your primary care manager.

Active duty service members should consult their primary care provider for behavioral health care assistance.

TRICARE Standard beneficiaries can see any TRICARE-authorized provider and they can minimize their out-of-pocket costs by using network providers. Costs for services can vary and cost details are available at www.tricare.mil/costs.

For more information on SAD and TRICARE’s mental health resources, or for information about how to make a behavioral health appointment, visit www.tricare.mil/mentalhealth. Beneficiaries can also contact their regional contractor for assistance.

SAD can put you at risk for depression not associated with the seasons. Talking with your primary care provider at the first signs of SAD can lead to early, effective treatment and faster recovery.