Why can shorter days change our mood drastically, affecting our energy, motivation and sense of connection? When does feeling low in winter become something worth taking seriously? When is it on par with depression? Join David Ammerschlaeger, a brilliant chief psychological counsellor, for a thoughtful discussion about seasonal affective disorder, or SAD: a form of depression that follows a recurring seasonal pattern, most often in autumn and winter. It’s a recognised, relatively common condition, with millions affected in the US alone, yet many people may not realise what they’re experiencing. David will explain how seasonal changes can influence our minds and bodies, and why their effects can reach into our work, relationships and everyday lives.

Together, we’ll explore how to recognise possible signs in ourselves or someone close to us, distinguish passing winter blues from a pattern that deserves professional attention, and understand what support can help. What do you say when someone withdraws or seems to lose interest in everything? How can you offer care without dismissing their feelings, or assuming you know what’s wrong? Through accessible explanations, questions and deep discussion, David will guide us through everyday coping approaches and treatment options, helping us respond with greater understanding. Whether this feels personally familiar or you’re simply curious, no psychology knowledge or personal disclosure is needed, just an openness to understanding how the seasons can shape our inner lives.

为什么白天变短就能大幅改变我们的情绪，影响我们的精力、动力和跟人连接的感觉？冬天心情低落，什么时候就变成了值得认真对待的事？什么时候它已经跟抑郁不相上下了？跟着 David Ammerschlaeger 来聊一场有想法的讨论吧。他是一位很出色的首席心理咨询师。这次聊季节性情绪失调，也就是 SAD：一种跟着季节反复出现的抑郁，最常发生在秋天和冬天。它是一种被认可、也相对常见的状况，光美国就有几百万人受影响，但很多人可能根本没意识到自己正在经历什么。David 会解释季节变化是怎么影响我们的心理和身体的，以及为什么它的影响能伸到我们的工作、关系和日常生活里。

我们会一起探索怎么在自己或者亲近的人身上认出可能的迹象，怎么把一时的“冬季低落”和一个值得找专业人士看的模式区分开，也会了解什么样的支持能帮上忙。当一个人退缩、好像对什么都失去兴趣的时候，你该说什么？你怎么在关心他的同时，不否定他的感受，也不假设自己知道问题出在哪？通过好懂的讲解、提问和深入讨论，David 会带我们过一些日常应对方法和治疗选项，帮我们更有理解地回应。不管这事对你来说很熟悉，还是你只是好奇，都不需要任何心理学知识，也不用分享私事，只要愿意开放地去理解季节是怎么塑造我们内心的。