Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), more commonly known as seasonal depression, is a type of depression related to the change in seasons and weather.
People with SAD feel symptoms at relatively the same time each year: around the end of fall into the winter months. Some people also experience SAD at the end of spring or early summer but this is less common. The most common signs one may be experiencing SAD are a lack of energy, constant depressive thoughts, and losing interest in activities that were once enjoyable. Weight fluctuation also tends to occur, with fall and winter SAD usually causing weight gain and spring and summer SAD causing weight loss.
It is still unknown what directly causes this disorder, but three factors have been found to contribute to it the most. The first one is a disruption in your biological clock, also known as circadian rhythm, which comes with the reduced sunlight as fall and winter approach. The second, also caused by reduced sunlight, is a drop in serotonin levels which are needed to feel happiness. The third is a change in melatonin levels which is why people with SAD may see a great change in their sleeping patterns.
If SAD is affecting you in such a way that you are constantly losing sleep, have a changed appetite, or have suicidal thoughts, it is best to see a physician. They can offer treatments that are currently used for SAD including light therapy, medications, and psychotherapy.
If you know of anyone that struggles with SAD, check in on them as the weather continues to fluctuate between warm and clear days and cold and rainy days that spring tends to bring.
