Winter Depression Therapy in Chicago
Support for Seasonal Mood Changes and Anxiety Overlap
Do you notice persistent low mood, low energy, or lack of motivation during the winter months? For many students and young adults, these symptoms may go beyond typical “winter blues” and indicate winter depression or seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
At Chicago Counseling Center, we provide evidence-based therapy for winter depression, including CBT for depression in Chicago, behavioral activation, and integrated support for overlapping anxiety or OCD. Our goal is to help you regain energy, focus, and quality of life—even during the darkest months.
Get started by scheduling an appointment with our team here.
Winter Blues vs. Winter Depression
Short-term low mood during winter is common and often referred to as “winter blues.” Signs that mood changes may indicate clinical winter depression include:
Persistent sadness or irritability
Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed (anhedonia)
Significant fatigue or low energy
Changes in sleep or appetite
Difficulty functioning at school, work, or socially
Symptoms lasting two or more weeks
Depression vs winter blues matters because early intervention improves outcomes and prevents long-term impact.
Overlap With Anxiety and OCD
Winter depression often co-occurs with anxiety or OCD, intensifying symptoms:
Rumination: Persistent negative thoughts about self, school, or work
Withdrawal: Avoiding responsibilities, social interactions, or activities
Perfectionism: Difficulty completing tasks due to fear of failure
Motivation loss: Even simple daily tasks feel overwhelming
Addressing co-occurring anxiety or OCD is essential for effective treatment.
Evidence-Based Care for Winter Depression
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Identify and reframe negative thought patterns
Schedule activities that boost mood and motivation
Structured goal-setting to regain daily functioning
Behavioral Activation
Create a routine with rewarding, meaningful, and social activities
Exposure to natural light, physical activity, and enjoyable tasks
ERP for Co-Occurring OCD
Gradual exposure to anxiety-provoking situations while resisting compulsions
Reduces rumination and avoidance, supporting mood stabilization
Chicago Counseling Center tailors these evidence-based strategies to each client’s needs, combining CBT for depression in Chicago with practical, skills-based support.
When to Reach Out
Professional support is recommended if you notice:
Difficulty functioning academically, professionally, or socially
Persistent low mood beyond normal seasonal shifts
Loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities
Increased anxiety, compulsions, or rumination
Early intervention improves quality of life and prevents winter depression from worsening.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do winter blues usually last?
Short-term seasonal dips often resolve as daylight increases or with consistent daily routines.
Can anxiety make winter depression worse?
Yes. Co-occurring anxiety or OCD can intensify low mood, rumination, and avoidance behaviors.
Do you treat SAD in Chicago?
Yes. Our clinicians provide targeted therapy for seasonal affective disorder and winter depression.
Is telehealth effective during winter?
Absolutely. Telehealth ensures consistent access to therapy, even when weather or daylight is limited.
Get Started With Winter Depression Therapy
If winter depression is affecting your energy, focus, or daily functioning, support is available.
If you're ready to explore your therapy options, our FAQ page can provide further insights into what might work best for you.
You can book an appointment online, whether you're seeking in-person therapy in Chicago or prefer the flexibility of online sessions.
References
Rosenthal, N. E., Sack, D. A., Gillin, J. C., Lewy, A. J., Goodwin, F. K., Davenport, Y., Mueller, P. S., Newsome, D. A., & Wehr, T. A. (1984). Seasonal affective disorder: A description of the syndrome and preliminary findings with light therapy. Archives of General Psychiatry, 41(1), 72–80.
Lam, R. W., & Levitt, A. J. (1999). Canadian Consensus Guidelines for the Treatment of Seasonal Affective Disorder. Journal of Affective Disorders, 53(1), 1–20.
American Psychiatric Association. (2022). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed., text rev.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.