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Let’s talk about Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

Seasonal Affective Disorder is a type of depression characterized by its recurrent seasonal patterns. Those who experience SAD have symptoms lasting approximately 4-5 months. In some cases, these mood changes are more serious. They can affect how a person feels, thinks, and handles daily activities.

There are two types of SAD:

• The Winter Blues

  • In most cases, SAD symptoms start around late fall/early winter. They progressively go away during the spring and summer. Because of the change in sunlight exposure during seasonal changes, the secretion of neurotransmitters like serotonin (which helps regulate mood) are decreased and neurotransmitters like melatonin (which helps regulate sleep) are increased.

  • Winter Blues Symptoms:

    • Oversleeping

    • Overeating, particularly carbs

    • Abnormal and excess weight gain

    • Social withdrawal

• Summertime SADness

  • Approximately 10% of the people that experience SAD experience the inverse where they experience depressive symptoms during the spring and summer months.

  • SS Symptoms:

    • Trouble sleeping (insomnia)

    • Poor appetite, leading to weight loss

    • Restlessness and agitation

    • Anxiety

    • Episodes of violent behavior

Treatments include:

• Light Therapy

• Psychotherapy “Talk Therapy”

• Vitamin D

• Medications

Immediate help for a CRISIS:

• National Suicide Prevention Hotline:

  • Call 1-800-273-TALK (8255)

  • En Español 1-888-628-9454

• Crisis Text Line:

  • Text “HELLO” to 741741

More information at:

https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/find-help/index.shtml