Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs at specific times of the year, typically during the fall and winter months when daylight hours are shorter, occasionally referred to as the “winter blues”. It’s believed to be triggered by changes in sunlight exposure, which can disrupt the body’s natural rhythms, including the sleep-wake cycle (circadian rhythm), as well as levels of important chemicals in the brain, like serotonin and melatonin. These changes can lead to mood shifts, fatigue, and other symptoms similar to major depressive disorder.
People with SAD often experience feelings of sadness or hopelessness, low energy, difficulty concentrating, and a lack of interest in activities they usually enjoy. Other common symptoms include changes in sleep patterns (such as sleeping too much), weight gain or overeating (particularly cravings for carbohydrates), and withdrawal from social activities. In most cases, symptoms start in the fall or winter, improve or disappear in the spring, and can recur year after year. Treatment for SAD may include light therapy, medication (like antidepressants), psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes such as increased exposure to natural light, exercise, and good sleep hygiene.
Check out the Behavioral & Mental Health Department for more information.