Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a mental health condition that directly correlates depressive symptoms to the changes in seasons. Some people might just think they are very tired or going through a “blue” time. These individuals who are affected start having signs of depression when Fall begins and it continues through the Winter season. There are some people who have SAD symptoms during the Spring and Summer months. SAD is categorized as a type of depression.

Much the same as chronic depression, these symptoms are characteristic of SAD:

• Fatigue and loss of interest in activities
• Feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness
• Difficulty concentrating
• Sleeplessness
• Sleeping too much
• Irritability
• Significant weight loss or gain
• Suicidal thoughts or urges
• Anxiety

One cause of SAD is attributed to the change in circadian rhythm with the loss of daylight. It kind of “throws you off” of your normal inner rhythm. This greatly affects your mental health and wellbeing. Another cause is hereditary. Individuals with a family history of SAD or depression in general are more likely to be afflicted with this condition. An overabundance of melatonin, the sleep hormone, can be the culprit. Melatonin is created by the body in the dark. So if there are more hours of dark during the day, more melatonin is produced. Thus, making you feel more lethargic than normal.

It is important to recognize the pattern of Seasonal Affective Disorder in order to treat it properly. Light therapy from full spectrum light bulbs can help significantly. Meeting with a therapist to talk through the depressive thoughts and behaviors is encouraged. In some cases, starting a medication prescribed by your doctor is a solution. It is imperative for you to reach out for help if you feel that you have SAD. Knowing the reason why you feel so lousy for half of the year is the first step to fixing the problem.

If you feel that you have these symptoms, search for a mental health provider at IPALC.org