HORSEHEADS, N.Y. (WENY) -- Dull, bitterly cold and snowy days are part of the typical winter season. However, this combination tends to trigger seasonal depression for many persons.

According to Dr. Danielle Terry, a Psychologist with Guthrie Medical Center,'' Seasonal depression is a type of depressive episode or pattern of depression. Therefore, you can have depression in the fall to the onset of winter, which is winter depression. You can also have depression occur, as you transition from spring to summer.''

Terry explained that behavioral activation, which is simply doing something, is one of the first steps you can take to overcome depression. Activities you may find pleasurable are like walking, socializing and listening to music. She stresses that finding the motivation to overcome depression is key. The motivation to locate one of the wide variety of  resources that would be beneficial to you. 

Dr Terry said, '' If you are some experiencing seasonal depression, you do not have to feel the way are because your symptoms are very treatable.''

For persons experiencing an emotional crisis,  sites like psychologytools.com and psychologytoday.com are available . For persons experiencing severe symptoms like suicidal thoughts, you can call the lifeline at 9-8-8.