11/06/2025
If you have a chance to get in the SUN 🌞 please do!
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of recurrent depression that is related to changes in the seasons, with symptoms typically starting in the fall and winter. It is often treated with light therapy, psychotherapy, and antidepressant medication. SAD can also be linked to changes in the brain's levels of melatonin and serotonin due to reduced sunlight, which disrupts a person's internal clock.
Symptoms
Sadness, gloominess, or hopelessness
Low energy or fatigue
Oversleeping or having trouble sleeping
Increased appetite, especially for carbohydrates, and weight gain
Social withdrawal
Irritability
Causes
Reduced sunlight: Shorter days in fall and winter can disrupt the body's internal clock, leading to feelings of depression.
Brain chemicals: Lower sunlight exposure can decrease serotonin and increase melatonin, a hormone that makes you feel sleepy, which can negatively affect mood and energy levels.
Other factors: A family history of SAD, having major depression or bipolar disorder, and low vitamin D levels can increase the risk.
Treatment
Light therapy: Exposure to a special light box can help make up for the lack of natural sunlight.
Psychotherapy: Talk therapy can help you learn new ways to think and behave to manage your symptoms.
Antidepressant medication: Your doctor may prescribe medication, sometimes in combination with talk therapy.
Lifestyle adjustments: Spending more time outdoors, getting regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy diet can help.
When to seek help
If you think you have SAD and are struggling to cope, it is important to see a healthcare provider for an assessment.
They can help determine if you have SAD or another condition.
If you have bipolar disorder, be sure to tell your doctor, as light therapy or antidepressants can potentially trigger a manic episode.
