The change of seasons can bring many joyful occasions. In the fall and winter months, we enjoy a variety of holiday activities with friends and family. On the other hand, the spring and summer months bring new growth and sunshine. But did you know that seasonal changes can also bring mood symptoms that can leave you feeling down or unlike yourself? Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs in a seasonal pattern. Most associate SAD with the fall or winter months when the days are shorter and we are exposed to less sunlight, but it can also occur during the spring and summer months.
What are the symptoms of SAD?
SAD is a type of depression characterized by a recurrent seasonal pattern, with symptoms lasting about 4−5 months out of the year. The signs and symptoms of SAD include those associated with depression as well as disorder-specific symptoms that differ for winter-pattern versus summer-pattern SAD.
Symptoms of depression can include the following:
· Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood most of the day, nearly every day, for at least 2 weeks
· Feelings of hopelessness
· Feelings of irritability, frustration, or restlessness
· Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
· Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities
· Decreased energy or fatigue
· Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
· Changes in sleep patterns or appetite
· Thoughts of death or suicide.
Additional symptoms for winter-pattern SAD can include:
· Oversleeping or hypersomnia
· Overeating (particularly craving carbohydrates) leads to weight gain
· Social withdrawal or “hibernating”
Additional symptoms for summer-pattern SAD can include:
· Insomnia or trouble sleeping
· Poor appetite that leads to weight loss
· Restlessness and agitation
· Anxiety
· Violent or aggressive behavior
Who develops SAD?
It is estimated that millions of Americans experience SAD each year. SAD usually begins in early adulthood and is more likely to be seen in women than men. Because winter-pattern SAD is more common, it is normally seen more in the northern states where the days are shorter in the winter. SAD is also more prevalent in people who are diagnosed with depression or bipolar disorder and is known to be hereditary.
What causes SAD?
The exact cause of SAD is still being researched. More is known about winter-pattern SAD due to the higher prevalence. Studies indicate that people with SAD, especially winter-pattern SAD, have reduced levels of the brain chemical serotonin, which helps regulate mood. Research also suggests that sunlight affects levels of molecules that help maintain normal serotonin levels. Shorter daylight hours may prevent these molecules from functioning properly, contributing to decreased serotonin levels in the winter. Other factors such as vitamin D deficiency and low levels of melatonin can also contribute to SAD.
How is SAD treated?
The four main categories of treatment include: light therapy, antidepressant medication, psychotherapy, and vitamin D. Light therapy and vitamin D are treatments for winter-pattern SAD, whereas psychotherapy and antidepressants are used to treat depression in general, including winter- and summer-pattern SAD. There are no treatments specific to summer-pattern SAD.
If you or someone you know are experiencing the above symptoms, it is important to talk with a mental health professional to determine if you are suffering from winter-pattern or summer-pattern SAD. Please share this blog with others so that we can increase the awareness of SAD and it’s treatment.