Seasonal Affective Disorder

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:

• The symptoms of SAD
• What causes seasonal affective disorder
• The risk factors for SAD
• How to treat SAD
• Where to find comprehensive mental health treatment and support

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.

 

What is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)?

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.

What are the Symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder?

Seasonal affective disorder symptoms can be similar to those of major depression. They include:

• Loss of interest in activities and hobbies
• Difficulty with concentration
• Low energy
• Feeling mentally and physically “sluggish”
• Sleeping too much
• Experiencing cravings for sweets or carb-heavy foods, resulting in weight gain
• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
• Feeling guilty, hopeless, or worthless
• Feeling listless or low most of the time

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:

• Appetite loss
• Changing sleep patterns, including difficulty sleeping and insomnia
• Anxiety
• Increased irritability
• Weight loss
• Agitation

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. 

What Causes SAD?

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.

Biological clock

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 levels

Melatonin is a hormone that affects sleep and mood. Changing seasons and shorter days may impact melatonin levels, leading to depression.

Serotonin levels

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.

What are the Risk Factors for SAD?

Several risk factors can impact the likelihood of experiencing SAD. Here is an overview of the potential risk factors for seasonal affective disorder.

Gender

Research shows that women are more likely to develop seasonal affective disorder.

Age

Young people are at higher risk of developing symptoms of SAD than older people. 

Location

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. 

Family history

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.

Low vitamin D levels

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.

What to Expect During Treatment for Seasonal Affective Disorder

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:

• Light therapy (exposure to a bright light in the early morning)
• Talking therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to process emotions and learn healthy coping mechanisms
• Medications, including anti-depressants
• Holistic therapies, like vitamin D supplements, exercise, mindfulness, and more

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. 

Find Treatment Now

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. 

References:

1. Johns Hopkins Medicine: Seasonal Affective Disorder
2. National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): Seasonal Affective Disorder
3. Science Direct: Treatment measures for seasonal affective disorder: A network meta-analysis
4. American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP): Seasonal Affective Disorder: Common Questions and Answers