Seasonal Depression in Maryland: What Works in Winter
- Scarlet Plus LLC
- Dec 16, 2025
- 4 min read
Living in Maryland offers beautiful transitions between seasons. We get the stunning fall foliage in Frederick and the cherry blossoms in D.C. But we also get the long gray winter. As the clocks fall back and the sun sets before 5 PM, many of us feel a shift. You might feel tired even after a full night of sleep or lose interest in things you usually love.
You are not alone in this.
Thousands of Marylanders experience a dip in mood when the temperature drops. For some it is just the "winter blues." For others it is a diagnosable condition called Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Understanding the difference is the first step to feeling better.
Is It Just the Winter Blues?
It is normal to want to stay inside when it is freezing outside. You might watch more TV or crave comfort foods like pasta and bread. However, seasonal depression goes deeper than just preferring a cozy blanket over a night out.
Seasonal depression is a type of depression that follows a seasonal pattern. It typically starts in late fall and lifts in the spring. It interferes with your daily life, work, and relationships.
Common signs include:
Feeling sad or down most of the day
Losing interest in hobbies you usually enjoy
Low energy and feeling sluggish
Oversleeping but still feeling tired
Difficulty concentrating
Craving carbohydrates and weight gain
Feeling hopeless or worthless
If you notice these patterns returning every winter, it is likely more than just the weather. It is a biological response to the lack of light.
Why Maryland Winters Affect Mental Health (Seasonal Depression)
Our location plays a big role. In Maryland and D.C. we sit at a latitude where winter daylight hours are significantly shorter. By December we often have less than 10 hours of sunlight a day.
This lack of light disrupts your circadian rhythm (your internal body clock). It can drop your levels of serotonin which is a brain chemical that affects mood. It also boosts melatonin which makes you feel sleepier.
The result is a chemical imbalance that makes you feel "off" until the days get longer in March or April.
3 Ways to Manage Symptoms at Home
You can take small steps today to help lift the fog. These are not cures for everyone but they are powerful tools.
1. Chase the Light
Light is the most effective natural treatment. Try to get outside within the first hour of waking up. Even on a cloudy day in Frederick the natural light is stronger than your indoor bulbs. If you cannot get outside consider a light therapy box. These boxes mimic outdoor light and can help reset your internal clock.
2. Move Your Body
Exercise releases endorphins that improve mood. You do not need to run a marathon. A 20 minute walk around your neighborhood or a quick yoga session in your living room can help. The key is consistency.
3. Stick to a Schedule
Your body craves routine. Try to wake up and go to sleep at the same time every day. This helps stabilize your internal clock even when the sun sets early.
When to Seek Professional Support
Sometimes home remedies are not enough. If your symptoms make it hard to work or care for your family you should speak to a professional. Depression is treatable and you do not have to "tough it out" until spring.
At Forbs Behavioral Health Services we offer comprehensive care tailored to your needs.
Therapy and Counseling
Talking to a therapist can help you identify negative thought patterns and learn coping skills. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is especially effective for seasonal depression.
Learn more about individual therapy here
Medication Management
For some people therapy combined with medication is the best path. Antidepressants can help correct the chemical imbalances caused by the change in seasons. Our psychiatry team can evaluate if this is right for you.
Learn more about psychiatry services here
Access Care Where You Are
We know that when you are feeling down leaving the house can feel like a massive hurdle. That is why we offer flexible options to fit your life.
Telehealth Services
We provide secure telehealth appointments for clients across the entire state of Maryland and Washington D.C. This is a great option for initial evaluations or therapy sessions from the comfort of your warm home.
In-Person Care in Frederick
If you prefer face to face connection we see patients at our office in Frederick, MD. This is often helpful for deeper treatment work where being in a dedicated space aids the healing process.
Let’s Get You Feeling Better
Winter does not have to be a season of suffering. You deserve to feel like yourself all year round. Whether you need a supportive ear or a full treatment plan we are here to help you navigate the darker months.
Reach out to Forbs Behavioral Health Services today to schedule your evaluation. Let us help you bring the light back into your winter.
