INTRODUCTION 

SAD or Seasonal Affective Disorder occurs for millions. It is something that can happen every year either in the winter or in the summer. Here are the symptoms of SAD and ways to treat it.

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SAD vs. Winter Blues

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is categorized “by a recurrent seasonal pattern, with symptoms lasting about 4−5 months out of the year.” 

National Institute of Mental Health

SAD is broken down in two patterns: winter-pattern SAD and summer-pattern SAD.

Winter-pattern SAD has the same symptoms of depression with some additional symptoms like oversleeping, overeating and social isolation.

To read more about depression read my other post here. 

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SAD should not be confused with winter or holiday blues. SAD is related to changes in daylight hours, not stress associated with holidays.

What Causes SAD

Research is still happening to identify what exactly causes seasonal affective disorder.

Some studies show that people with winter-pattern SAD have reduced levels of serotonin, which is the chemical that helps regulate mood. It is thought that sunlight helps maintain normal serotonin levels, so with the decrease in sunlight hours during the colder months, it makes sense that it could affect a person’s mood.

A Vitamin D deficiency is also thought to contribute to SAD. Since Vitamin D also helps with production of serotonin.

How to treat SAD

Just like with other mental health conditions, the treatment for SAD should be based on individual need and be multifaceted. 

Antidepressant medication, psychotherapy, light therapy and Vitamin D have all shown to help in reducing symptoms of SAD.

Light therapy is used as a way to bring light to those suffering with SAD during the decreased sunlight months. A special light like the one here is used that does not have harmful UV rays, but those with certain eye conditions will need to be extra cautious.

There is no conclusive evidence that Vitamin D can help. Some studies have shown it to be effective, and others have seen no results. 

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CONCLUSION

Whether it is SAD or the winter blues, there are ways of getting help. Reaching out to a professional in your area or finding support groups. With millions experiencing these symptoms just remember, you are not alone. 

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