Assessing the severity of SAD symptoms can involve:

  • Clinical Interviews: Conduct thorough interviews to explore the client’s mood patterns, seasonal triggers, and any impact on daily functioning.
  • Standardised Assessment Tools: Utilise tools like the Seasonal Affective Disorder Questionnaire (SADQ) or the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) to quantify symptoms and track changes over time.
  • Mood Tracking: Encourage clients to keep a mood diary to log their feelings, energy levels, and activities throughout the seasons. This can help identify patterns and triggers.
  • Behavioural Observations: Note any changes in the client’s demeanor, energy level, and engagement during sessions to gauge symptom severity.