Seasonal depression – also known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD) – is a type of depression related to changes in seasons. And no, it’s not a made-up thing. SAD begins and ends at about the same times each year.
Most people with SAD experience symptoms at the start of Autumn, continuing into the winter seasons. The symptoms then often resolve with the onset of spring, into summer.
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What are the symptoms of seasonal affective disorder?
There are generally two types of SAD: winter-pattern and summer-pattern. The latter, occurs in about 10% of cases.
Symptoms may include:
- Feelings of sadness. Depressed most of the day, each day
- Sluggish, low energy
- Difficulty concentrating
- Feeling irritable or agitated
- Thoughts of suicide or death
Additional symptoms of winter-pattern SAD:
- Overeating, weight gain
- Lack of interest in social activities
Additional symptoms of summer-pattern SAD:
- Decreased appetite, weight loss
- Difficulty sleeping
- Episodes of violent behavior
It is NOT clinical depression
While there are similar symptoms, SAD and clinical depression are completely different. One major difference, is that clinical depression is not triggered by daylight/seasonal changes: it is persistent throughout the year.
SAD shows up at almost predictable, specific patterns in the year.
Psychiatrist, Yolonda Renee Pickett, M.D. says the main difference between SAD and clinical depression is the ‘timing’. “Those with SAD would see a pattern in their depressive symptoms, and can feel okay during other times of the year,” adds Dr. Pickett.
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Causes of SAD?
Experts are not yet certain what causes seasonal affective disorder. They suspect it might be the lack of sunlight, in cases of winter-pattern SAD. Other theories suggest:
- Your biological clock: the reduced level of sunlight in winter may disrupt your body’s circadian rhythm. Your internal clock regulates mood, sleep and hormones. This shift can lead to feelings of depression.
- Serotonin levels: reduced sunlight can also cause a drop in serotonin. Serotonin is a brain chemical that affects mood, and a drop, may trigger feelings of depression.
- Vitamin D deficiency: your serotonin levels get a boost from Vitamin D. Sunlight helps produce Vitamin D, but less sunlight can lead to a deficiency. This change can then affect your serotonin levels and – ultimately – your mood.
- Melatonin increase: melatonin is a chemical that affects sleep patterns and mood. The lack of sunlight can cause an overproduction of melatonin in some people. Causing feelings of sluggishness during the winter.
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Prevention
There is no definitive way to prevent the onset of SAD. But with help from your healthcare provider, you may implement measures to manage symptoms before they worsen over time.
If you experience any symptoms associated with SAD, seek professional aid from a counselor, psychiatrist or your GP. Especially if your symptoms impact your everyday life.
Some practical measures may include spending time outside, even when its cloudy, or practicing light therapy. Eating a well-balanced diet will assist with energy levels and curb overeating. Exercise can also boost energy and control your mood.
And while this may feel like a lonely time, seek social support though trusted friends or family members.
