What to know about Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
When most people think of feeling “sad,” they imagine rough days at work, receiving bad
grades, or dealing with the loss of your favorite tv character. However, in the field of psychology,
SAD has an additional meaning. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a mental health condition
triggered by changes in seasons (Mayo Clinic, 2021). For most, symptoms begin in the fall and
continue into the winter months, causing moodiness and draining energy. Less commonly, some
individuals experience SAD during the spring and summer months, with symptoms easing in
colder seasons.
When identifying symptoms of SAD, it is important to consider the time of year and whether any
recent events could be contributing to these emotions. If there’s no clear triggering event, the
change in seasons might be the culprit. Symptoms vary by season, but typical signs of SAD
include:
– Feeling listless, sad, or down most of the day, nearly every day
– Losing interest in activities you once enjoyed
– Having low energy and feeling sluggish
– Having problems with sleeping too much (as if snooze buttons were your best friend)
– Experiencing carbohydrate cravings, overeating, and weight gain (not just from holiday
cookies, although they don’t help!)
– Having difficulty concentrating
– Feeling hopeless, worthless, or guilty
– Having thoughts of not wanting to live
For those with fall and winter SAD, symptoms such as oversleeping, appetite changes, weight
gain (though not solely from pumpkin pie), and low energy are common. In contrast, spring and
summer SAD often brings trouble sleeping, anxiety, irritability, poor appetite, and weight loss.
The causes of SAD are typically linked to disruptions in the body’s circadian rhythm due to
reduced sunlight exposure during colder months (Mayo Clinic, 2021). This lack of sunlight can
throw off your body’s internal clock, making it feel like permanent jet lag. It can also decrease
serotonin, a brain chemical that affects mood, leading to feelings of depression.
If left untreated, SAD can lead to social withdrawal, difficulties at work or school, substance
abuse, and even the development of more severe mental health disorders. Recognizing the signs
early is crucial for preventing these outcomes.
Treatment for SAD often involves psychotherapy, medication, and phototherapy, which uses
specialized light boxes to mimic natural sunlight. Early intervention can make a significant difference in helping individuals feel better and regain energy, even when the seasons seem to
work against them.
References:
Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (12/14/2021). Seasonal affective
disorder (SAD). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/seasonal-
affective-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20364651