As winter approaches
- The days are shorter.
- The weather is wetter.
- The temperature is colder.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a mood disorder that has a seasonal pattern.
It’s also known as:
- Winter depression
- Winter blues
- Seasonal depression.
In a nutshell, SAD makes people with ‘normal’ mental health experience depressive symptoms at a specific time each year – most often winter.
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that’s triggered by a change in seasons, usually when fall starts. This seasonal depression gets worse in the late fall or early winter before ending in the sunnier days of spring.
You can also get a mild version of SAD known as the “winter blues.” It’s normal to feel a little down during colder months. You may be stuck inside, and it gets dark early.
But full SAD goes beyond this. It’s a form of depression. Unlike the winter blues, SAD affects your daily life, including how you feel and think. Fortunately, treatment can help you get through this challenging time.
What are the symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD)?
- Sadness, feeling depressed most of the day, almost every day.
- Anxiety.
- Carbohydrate cravings and weight gain.
- Extreme fatigue and lack of energy.
- Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness.
- Trouble concentrating.
- Feeling irritated or agitated.
About 15% of adults in the U.S experience SAD. It tends to start in young adulthood (usually between the ages of 18 and 30). SAD affects women more than men, though researchers are not sure why.
Another 10% to 20% of people in America may get a milder form of the winter blues.
So know you are not alone!!
If you or someone you know is in immediate distress or is thinking about hurting themselves, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline toll-free at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). You also can text the Crisis Text Line (HELLO to 741741) or use the national crisis lifeline by calling 988.
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