Are you, or someone that you love, living with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)? Are you sure? Plenty of people experience a hint of the winter blues as harsh weather keeps us shut up indoors, but seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a more serious form of depression. Fortunately, there are effective forms of treatment. These are the basic facts about SAD and how to feel better year-round.
10 Facts About SAD
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You can distinguish between SAD and other forms of depression.
- SAD often resembles other types of depression.
- The key difference is that your symptoms are limited to the same season each year.
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Symptoms will present themselves.
- With SAD, you’re likely to feel sad and irritable.
- You may be hungry all the time with especially strong cravings for carbohydrates like bread and pasta.
- It’s also common to feel drowsy and sleep more.
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There are different varieties of SAD.
- This condition usually strikes in the winter, but not always.
- For some people, the heat and humidity of summer serve as triggers.
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There are certain risk factors.
- The highest risk of SAD occurs between the ages of 15 and 55.
- As you age, you’re less likely to develop SAD.
- It’s more common in women and in areas where winter days are shorter and the amount of light changes dramatically according to the season.
- Family history also plays a role.
Now That You Know
If you determine that you are in fact experiencing seasonal affective disorder, please follow up with a mental health provider to see about treatment options. You can also check out my article on Strategies for Living with SAD. While winter cold can be daunting, the change of seasons can also be an opportunity to appreciate nature and shake up your daily routines. A little more exposure to morning light may be all you need to stay well. If you think you could be experiencing symptoms of SAD, take the time that it takes to nourish yourself. Don’t hesitate to work with a team of providers and develop a treatment plan that works for you.
Explore the Possibilities.
Live in ways that support you.