What Is Seasonal Affective Disorder?
What Is Seasonal Affective Disorder?
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs at a specific time of year, typically in the fall and winter months when daylight hours are shorter, although some people can experience it in the spring or summer as well.
SAD is a subtype of depression that follows a seasonal pattern, and typically begins in late fall or early winter and can last until the spring. People with SAD experience the same symptoms as those with major depressive disorder, and these symptoms can often include low energy, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, changes in appetite (particularly cravings for carbohydrates), weight gain, and oversleeping. Some people also experience irritability and social withdrawal. On the flip side, summer-onset SAD can cause symptoms like insomnia, weight loss, and increased agitation, though it is less common.
The exact cause of SAD is not fully understood, but several factors are believed to contribute to its onset.
- Reduced sunlight exposure: During the winter months, shorter days and less exposure to natural sunlight can disrupt the body’s circadian rhythm (internal clock), leading to changes in sleep patterns and mood regulation. Lack of sunlight may decrease serotonin levels, contributing to feelings of depression.
- Melatonin imbalance: Melatonin is a hormone that helps regulate sleep and wake cycles. Reduced daylight in the winter can lead to an overproduction of melatonin, making individuals feel sleepier and more lethargic.
- Genetics and family history: Like other forms of depression, people with a family history of depression or SAD are more likely to experience the condition themselves.
- Age and gender: SAD is more common in women than men, and its onset is most often seen in individuals between the ages of 18 and 30.
Treatment options include:
- Light therapy: One of the most common and effective treatments for winter-onset SAD is light therapy, which involves sitting in front of a special light box that mimics natural sunlight. This treatment helps regulate the body’s circadian rhythm and increase serotonin levels. Typically, patients use the light box for 20-30 minutes each morning.
- Psychotherapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a common therapeutic approach for SAD. It helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to depression.
- Medications: Antidepressant medications may be prescribed for people with moderate to severe SAD. These medications help balance serotonin levels in the brain and alleviate symptoms of depression.
- Lifestyle changes: Regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy diet, and practicing relaxation techniques like meditation can help reduce symptoms of SAD. Additionally, making an effort to spend time outdoors during daylight hours can be beneficial, even on cloudy days.
