woman experiencing seasonal affective disorder

Online seasonal affective disorder diagnosis.

Are you feeling down or moody, and aren’t sure why? These feelings are common during the darker months and a doctor can help. Skip the waiting room and connect with an online doctor at a time that suits you at Tia Health.

Book now
woman experiencing seasonal affective disorder

Online seasonal affective disorder diagnosis.

Are you feeling down or moody, and aren’t sure why? These feelings are common during the darker months and a doctor can help.

Skip the waiting room and connect with an online doctor at a time that suits you at Tia Health.

Book now

Learn more ↓

What is seasonal affective disorder?

Seasonal affective disorder is a form of depression that usually impacts individuals in fall or winter and is characterized by feelings of sadness and helplessness associated with the changing of the seasons. The exact cause of the disorder is unknown, experts believe it could be to do with hormonal changes which disrupt your circadian rhythm. For example, in fall and winter there is less sunlight, which could cause the brain to produce less of the mood-regulating hormone serotonin.

Learn more ↓

What is seasonal affective disorder?

Seasonal affective disorder is a form of depression that usually impacts individuals in fall or winter and is characterized by feelings of sadness and helplessness associated with the changing of the seasons. The exact cause of the disorder is unknown, experts believe it could be to do with hormonal changes which disrupt your circadian rhythm. For example, in fall and winter there is less sunlight, which could cause the brain to produce less of the mood-regulating hormone serotonin.

Learn more ↓

man experiencing seasonal affective disorder

A S.A.D. diagnosis is likely if you are experiencing more than one of these symptoms for days at a time.

If you’re experiencing these symptoms and feel like they are negatively impacting your regular life, talk to a doctor today for medical advice and a seasonal affective disorder diagnosis:

  • Depressive or guilty feelings

  • Reduced energy and fatigue

  • Appetite changes or weight gain

  • Feelings of agitation, moodiness, or sluggishness

  • Disinterest in activities usually enjoyed

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Are certain people more at risk of getting a seasonal affective disorder diagnosis?

Yes, risk of S.A.D. is higher for the following individuals:

  • Females
  • Those who live further away from the equator (and so experience less sunlight)
  • Those with bipolar disorder
  • People who have a family history of S.A.D disorder
  • People in their 20s

How can I prevent seasonal affective disorder?

The following practices can help to prevent S.A.D., including:

  • Regular exercise every day
  • Maintaining a healthy, nutritious diet that includes vitamin D
  • Spending time outside when the sun is shining
  • Increasing light levels in the home
  • Implementing a consistent sleep schedule
  • Taking a winter vacation

How is seasonal affective disorder different from depression?

The only difference is that S.A.D. is tied to the seasons and tends to resolve itself when the darker months end. Depression is an ongoing disorder and may not ease on its own.

When should I see a doctor to help?

If you have been experiencing the symptoms associated with S.A.D for more than a few days, then it is time to see a doctor. An online physician can assess your symptoms and if necessary, they may prescribe medication or refer you to a mental health professional for further treatment. You can have your prescription delivered for free or sent to a pharmacy of your choice for pick-up.

Is seasonal affective disorder serious?

Yes, it can be very serious if not treated. Different individuals will experience different levels of intensity if they suffer with S.A.D., but in extreme cases it can have a very debilitating impact on a person’s daily life.

How common is seasonal affective disorder?

In Canada, it is a relatively rare disorder which impacts approximately 3% of the population. Globally, it 10–20% of individuals can have a seasonal affective disorder diagnosis.

What treatments are available for seasonal affective disorder?

Treatments for S.A.D. can include:

  • Antidepressant medications
  • Light therapy
  • Psychiatry sessions

How do I prepare for my online appointment?

To ensure the physician can provide an accurate seasonal affective disorder medication prescription during your appointment, you can help by noting down any concerns and answers in advance, along with any allergies they should be aware of.

What will my online appointment be like?

Appointments usually take between five to thirty minutes depending on the individual need. The online doctor will ask for a description of your symptoms. This will allow them to determine the best course of treatment. If necessary, they may recommend a follow-up appointment or a visit to a physical clinic.

How booking works.

“How do I connect with an online doctor about seasonal affective disorder?”

Our virtual clinic is designed to provide you with secure, trusted and easy access to the advice and care you need when you need it.

Here is how to book an appointment:

Here is how to book an appointment:

Skip the waiting room and book a virtual clinic appointment instead

Step 1

Select which doctor you would like to see and whether you prefer a phone or video call. We have a variety of male and female doctors available to help you in a number of languages.

Step 2

Attend your virtual appointment from the comfort of your own home using your chosen method of communication. We do not require you to download any apps or programs.

Step 3

Receive guidance and seasonal affective disorder treatment recommendations from the medical specialist. If necessary, the doctor may make a referral to a psychiatrist. The doctor can share any necessary prescriptions with your chosen pharmacy, and you can opt to have medication delivered to your home for free or can collect in-person if preferred.

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FAQ

Have a question?

Services

Tia Health doctors' prescriptions are legitimate and are accepted by pharmacies. You can have your prescription delivered for free or sent to a pharmacy of your choice for pick-up.
Yes. Our telehealth platform connects you to a fully licensed Canadian physician. Just like an in-person visit, with telehealth, the doctor is responsible for understanding your case, medical history, and determining the appropriate treatment. If the doctor is not able to help you through telehealth, they may advise that you visit a clinic or hospital in-person.
Your privacy is our top priority, we use bank-level encryption and store data securely in Canada.
Click on the Book Now button to get started. You will then be prompted to select the type of consultation (video or phone), who the appointment is for (you or someone else), and which provider you would like to speak with. Lastly, you will be prompted to sign-up or login to confirm your appointment.
Yes! All Tia Health doctors are Canadian licensed physicians. You can verify the status of their license and view their credentials on the College of Physicians website for the province they are licensed. The city and province in which the physician practices is listed on their Tia Health profile which you will see while navigating the booking process.
Yes, we have a variety of doctors, male and female, doctors who speak different languages, and with different specialties.
If you have a family doctor working on the Tia Health platform, they may have telehealth availability. If not, check back soon as we are adding physicians weekly.

Pricing

Telehealth services are covered by the provincial health plans in British Columbia (MSP), Alberta (AHCIP), and Ontario (OHIP) but not currently in other provinces (check back soon as this is changing). Patients with valid coverage in these provinces will not be charged for their telehealth service. Patients in other provinces will receive a receipt that may be reimbursed through a health spending account or other extended/private insurance.
Through our partnership with Focus Mental Wellness, you can talk to a licensed and compassionate therapist via phone, video, or text. Focus therapy services don't require a doctor's referral and are covered by most extended health benefits. Sessions are usually available within a few days, and depending on your selected therapist's availability, same-day sessions are offered.
We accept VISA, MasterCard, American Express, and other online payment enabled cards.
Telehealth services are covered by the provincial health plans in British Columbia (MSP), Alberta (AHCIP), and Ontario (OHIP) but not currently in other provinces (check back soon as this is changing). Patients with valid coverage in these provinces will not be charged for their telehealth service. Patients in other provinces will receive a receipt that may be reimbursed through a health spending account or other extended/private insurance. If no coverage is available to you, then appointment pricing ranges depending on the appointment type you select. There are no time-based fees or additional fees if an appointment lasts longer than expected.
Get the best care from anywhere

Get the best care from anywhere!

Tia Health is focused on modernizing and digitizing healthcare. Our mission is to positively impact health outcomes by leveraging technology to empower patients and doctors.

Book now

Get the best care from anywhere!

Tia Health is focused on modernizing and digitizing healthcare. Our mission is to positively impact health outcomes by leveraging technology to empower patients and doctors.

Book now

This page is intended for informational purposes only and does not provide medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.