A 45-year-old female reports chronic low energy, irritability, and hypersomnia during the winter months for the last three years. The symptoms usually start in the late fall and subside in the early spring. What is the probable diagnosis, and what are the management options?
The patient's symptoms suggest Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a subtype of major depressive disorder that follows a seasonal pattern. Common treatments for SAD include light therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy specifically tailored for SAD (CBT-SAD), and antidepressant medication. Lifestyle modifications, such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, and maximizing exposure to natural light can also be beneficial.