Many people in the United States live with mental health conditions. Many mental health conditions significantly affect a person’s quality of life and functioning. Some mental health conditions are chronic and require lifelong management. Others are situational and require short-term treatment.
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs during seasonal changes. This article will explore seasonal affective disorder and its treatment. You will learn:
If you or someone you love struggles with symptoms of seasonal affective disorder, you are not alone. Contact the specialists at Agape Behavioral to learn about our treatment and support programs. Reach out if you have questions, need help verifying your insurance, or want to make an appointment.
Seasonal affective disorder is a type of depression related to seasonal patterns. Most people with SAD experience symptoms of depression during the fall and winter seasons. They may begin to experience symptoms at the start of fall and experience worsening symptoms throughout the winter months.
Some people refer to SAD as the “winter blues” because people typically experience worsening symptoms in the winter. However, people can also experience SAD during the spring and summer–although this is less common.
Many people believe they need to simply put up with low energy and depression throughout the winter. However, lifestyle changes and mental health treatment can help people reduce their symptoms and help people feel better.
Seasonal affective disorder symptoms can be similar to those of major depression. They include:
These are the most common symptoms of SAD that occur in the fall and winter. However, people with spring and summer SAD symptoms may experience:
People who experience symptoms during seasonal changes can benefit from working with a mental health professional. Getting help can help people address this condition and feel better.
Mental health experts believe several factors may contribute to seasonal affective disorder. Here is an overview of what may cause SAD.
Bipolar disorder
People with bipolar disorder are at increased risk of developing seasonal affective disorder.
The body has a circadian (daily) rhythm that impacts sleep, wakefulness, energy, and mood. Shorter daylight hours during the fall and winter may disrupt the body’s internal “clock” and cause depression.
Melatonin is a hormone that affects sleep and mood. Changing seasons and shorter days may impact melatonin levels, leading to depression.
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a role in mood. The brain may produce less serotonin when days are shorter and darker, which may lead to depression.
Several risk factors can impact the likelihood of experiencing SAD. Here is an overview of the potential risk factors for seasonal affective disorder.
Research shows that women are more likely to develop seasonal affective disorder.
Young people are at higher risk of developing symptoms of SAD than older people.
Those living far north or south of the equator have higher rates of SAD than people who live near it. Locations far from the equator have less sunlight in the winter and longer summer days.
Having a close blood relative (parent, sibling, grandparent, etc) may increase a person’s risk of seasonal affective disorder. Having a family history of bipolar disorder may also raise a person’s risk of SAD.
The body produces vitamin D in response to sun exposure. Vitamin D impacts serotonin activity, which can play a role in mood and energy. Low vitamin D levels may contribute to SAD symptoms that occur in the fall and winter.
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) can disrupt functioning and reduce quality of life. While symptoms typically resolve during spring and summer, people do not have to simply accept them or “tough it out” all winter.
Treatment for SAD includes:
If you experience symptoms of seasonal affective disorder, talk to your health care provider. You can also contact the specialists at Agape Behavioral to learn about our treatment programs.
If you or someone you love struggles with symptoms of seasonal affective disorder, you are not alone. Contact the Agape Behavioral specialists to learn about our holistic treatment programs or to schedule an intake appointment.
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