Do You Feel SAD in Winter?

Although spring is around the corner, there are still more than 50 days left of winter, leaving many people feeling the effects of SAD – Seasonal Affective Disorder – a type of depression that happens mostly during fall or winter. While there is no clear cause of SAD, it is thought that less sunlight and shorter days create a chemical change in the brain.

SAD Symptoms

Symptoms occur around the same time every year and can include the following:

• Loss of interest in, or enjoyment of activities, or withdrawal from social activities
• Irritability and anxiety
• Increased sleep and daytime drowsiness
• Fatigue, or low energy
• Feelings of guilt or hopelessness
• Trouble focusing, concentrating or thinking clearly
• Decrease in sex drive
• Increase in appetite, with or without weight gain
• Physical symptoms like headaches

Treatment of SAD

There are several ways to treat SAD with the help of a trained professional, including:

• Exposure to sunlight, natural, or to a special light for a specific amount of time each day;
• Psychotherapy, which can help you change views of yourself or surroundings, improve relationships, and help you identify and manage things that cause stress; or
• Antidepressants, which can help to correct the chemical imbalance that may lead to SAD.

There are also things you can do for yourself to help relieve symptoms such as getting help, setting realistic goals, being with other people, confiding in someone, participating in activities that make you feel better, getting regular exercise, eating healthy, avoiding alcohol and drugs, and trying to be patient while focusing on the positives.

It’s imperative to seek professional help if you feel you are affected by Seasonal Affective Disorder, as symptoms could also be indicative of other ailments. While a change in season can be difficult, it’s also important to remember that how you’re feeling is likely just temporary.

Contributed by Eric Alcera, M.D., medical director of Behavioral Health at Hackensack Meridian Health Riverview Medical Center and Bayshore Medical Center