As the days grow shorter and the weather turns colder, many people begin to notice a shift in their mood. While some may simply feel a bit sluggish or unmotivated, others experience a more significant change that affects their daily functioning. This condition, known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), is more than just a case of the “winter blues.” It’s a form of depression that occurs at a specific time each year, most commonly in the fall and winter months. Let’s explore what SAD is, its symptoms, and how you can manage it effectively.
What is Seasonal Affective Disorder?
Seasonal Affective Disorder is a type of depression that follows a seasonal pattern, typically emerging in the fall and continuing through the winter. Although the exact cause of SAD is not fully understood, it is believed to be linked to reduced exposure to sunlight, which can disrupt the body’s internal clock (circadian rhythm) and lead to decreased levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter associated with mood regulation.
While SAD most commonly occurs in winter, there is also a less common form of the disorder that happens in the spring and summer. This form often impacts people who do not like heat or humid conditions. Regardless of when symptoms occur, the impact on an individual’s mental health and daily life can be profound.
Common Symptoms of SAD
SAD shares many symptoms with other forms of depression, but it has a unique pattern tied to specific seasons. Symptoms can vary in severity but often include:
• Persistent low mood or feelings of sadness
• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
• Fatigue or low energy, even after adequate sleep
• Increased appetite or weight gain, particularly cravings for carbohydrates
• Sleep disturbances, often oversleeping (hypersomnia)
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, or guilt
• Irritability or heightened sensitivity to rejection
When these symptoms appear consistently during the fall and winter months, it may indicate SAD rather than just occasional mood fluctuations.
In our next blog post we will look at both who is at risk for developing SAD. As well, as the different types of treatments that exist for Seasonal Affective Disorder.