Seasonal affective disorder is a depression that occurs at certain times of the year, usually in the winter.
People who suffer from SAD experience a combination of low mood, loss of interest in activities, difficulty concentrating, increased sleep, fatigue, and difficulty waking up.
Symptoms can range from mild to severe and be more pronounced during the year’s colder months.
It’s believed to be caused by a lack of exposure to natural light, which can disrupt our natural circadian rhythms and lead to depression-like symptoms.
Fortunately, there are effective treatments available that can help manage symptoms of SAD.
Signs of seasonal affective disorder
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a kind of depression that typically begins during the fall and winter months when days are shorter and temperatures are colder.
It can cause symptoms such as depression, irritability, fatigue, changes in sleep patterns, and difficulty concentrating.
People with SAD often experience changes in appetite, cravings for carbohydrates and sweets, weight gain, and social withdrawal.
Other symptoms may include increased sensitivity to rejection, frequent thoughts of death or suicide, decreased libido, and low energy levels.
It is important to recognize that the symptoms of SAD can vary from person to person and can also vary over time.
Therefore, if you experience any of these symptoms during the fall and winter months, you must talk to your doctor to determine if you may be suffering from a seasonal affective disorder.
Causes of seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
The exact cause of seasonal affective disorder is unknown; however, it is thought to be caused by various factors, including; biological, environmental and psychological.
1. Biological causes
A reduction in exposure to sunlight during the fall and winter months can affect the body’s production of serotonin. This neurotransmitter plays a crucial role in regulating mood.
This can lead to feelings of depression. Additionally, people with SAD may have an imbalance of melatonin, a hormone that affects our sleep patterns.
2. Environmental causes
People who live farther away from the equator tend to experience more pronounced symptoms of SAD due to lower amounts of natural sunlight available during the winter months.
Also, changes in work or school schedules or travel to different time zones can cause disruptions in the body’s internal clock and contribute to SAD.
3. Psychological causes
Psychological factors such as stress or feeling overwhelmed by certain situations can contribute to SAD. Poor coping strategies or a lack of supportive relationships can also contribute to symptoms of SAD.
4. Adverse thoughts
People suffering from SAD frequently experience tension, worry, and negative thoughts about the winter. Researchers are unsure if these negative thoughts are a cause or a result of seasonal depression.
Note that there is no single cause of SAD, and each person may experience different symptoms and causes. As such, it is important to speak with a mental health professional to determine the best treatment for your individual needs.
Who is prone to seasonal affective disorder
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) affects millions of people, particularly those in the northern hemisphere. Although it is more common in young adults, people of all ages and backgrounds can experience SAD.
SAD affects women more often than men and is most commonly seen in people aged 20-50. People living in higher latitudes are at greater risk for developing SAD due to reduced exposure to sunlight in the winter months.
Additionally, those with a family history of depression or other mental health disorders are at an increased risk for developing SAD.
It is essential to remember that anyone can experience SAD, regardless of age or gender. If you sense that you or someone you know may be affected by SAD, it is important to seek professional help. With the right treatment, SAD can be managed, and its symptoms minimized.
What’s the prospect for people with seasonal affective disorder?
The prospect for people with seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is promising. With proper treatment, many people can find relief from their symptoms.
Treatment typically involves lifestyle modifications, such as getting plenty of natural light, exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, and engaging in stress-relieving activities. Light therapy and medications can also be effective for those with more severe symptoms.
In most cases, the seasonal affective disorder is a temporary condition that dissipates when the days become longer or brighter. Those who suffer from SAD will usually experience some improvement with the start of the spring or summer season.
For some, however, SAD can be a recurrent disorder. These individuals may manage their symptoms more effectively and prevent future flare-ups with proper treatment.
Prevention for SAD
The best way to prevent SAD is to be proactive about your mental health and take steps to stay well during the winter months. Below are a few things you can do to help prevent the seasonal affective disorder from developing:
1. Start using light therapy at the beginning of fall, before you feel SAD symptoms.
2. Get outside when possible. Walking in the sunshine for at least 15 minutes daily can help improve your mood and energy levels. Sunlight helps our bodies produce Vitamin D, which has been linked to improved mood.
3. Exercise regularly. Exercise has been proven to help improve mood and reduce stress. Aim to get at least 30 minutes of exercise each day.
4. Spend time with friends and family. Making time for social activities and relationships can help to boost your mood and give you something to look forward to during the winter months.
5. Eat healthy foods. Eating nutrient-rich foods can help improve your overall well-being and help your body fight seasonal illnesses like colds and flu.
6. Get enough sleep. Lack of sleep can exacerbate depression or anxiety symptoms, so it’s important to ensure you get enough rest during the winter months.
7. Seek professional help if needed. If you feel that your symptoms are becoming overwhelming or are interfering with your daily life, it may be time to seek professional help from a mental health professional.
If you’re always struggling with seasonal affective disorder it’s time you seek the expert help of a psychologist today. Click here to schedule an appointment.