Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

Seasonal depression is also known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Beginning in late fall, SAD is often triggered by changing of seasons. About 5% of adults between 18-30 in America experience SAD. At risk populations include those who have another mood disorder such as bipolar disorder and mental health conditions such as schizophrenia.

Symptoms of SAD include: sadness, anxiety, abnormal carbohydrate cravings, weight gain, lethargy, feelings of hopelessness, difficulty concentrating and loss of interest in activities. More severe symptoms of SAD include thoughts of death or suicide and sleeping problems. Although the exact etiology is unknown, several theories have suggested that lack of sunlight may act as a trigger.

Criteria for SAD diagnosis include symptoms of major depression, depressive episodes that occur during certain seasons for at least 2 years and depressive episodes increasing in frequency during a certain season. There are a variety of treatments available to treat SAD including light therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, antidepressant medication, increasing outdoor time and vitamin D supplementation. Side effects of light therapy include eyestrain, fatigue, headaches, insomnia and irritability. Discuss your symptoms with your healthcare provider if you feel that you experience any SAD symptoms!

References:

Seasonal Depression (Seasonal Affective Disorder). (n.d.). Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9293-seasonal-depression