The term “seasonal depression” is thrown around often, and while the name itself describes this disorder, there’s more to it than just dark weather making people sad. Sure, when the sun doesn’t come out as often and the days get shorter, people are prone to feeling down, but there’s a big difference between feeling down and having depression.
The clinical name for seasonal depression is Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD for short (ironic, we know). It generally occurs around the fall and continues into winter, though it can occasionally happen during the summer for some people. Although scientists are not totally sure what causes SAD, one theory is that the changing of the weather has a big impact on a person’s mood, and oftentimes gloomy weather can lead to a gloomy mood, along with depression.
Depression can include feelings of hopelessness, low self-esteem, and even thoughts of self-harm or suicide. It is an issue that is especially prominent in today’s youth, and can be very difficult to seek help for, as depression can make you feel unmotivated. Much like major depression, there are ways to treat SAD. Light therapy, talk-therapy, and medication are among the few more common ways. Talking to a professional or a trusted adult can help you figure out the path that is right for you.
Signs/Symptoms
Most of the signs correlate with major depression symptoms as well, but not everyone who suffers from SAD displays all symptoms. If you believe any of these pertain to you, please talk to a professional.
Feeling depressed most of the day, nearly every day
Losing interest in activities you once enjoyed
Experiencing changes in appetite or weight
Having problems with sleep
Feeling sluggish or agitated
Having low energy
Feeling hopeless or worthless
Having difficulty concentrating
Having frequent thoughts of death or suicide
Oversleeping (hypersomnia)
Overeating, particularly with a craving for carbohydrates
Weight gain
Social withdrawal (feeling like “hibernating”)
Self-Care Tips
Stay hydrated
Make a list of things you are grateful for each day
Take time to do things that you enjoy ( this could be playing with your pet, reading, listening to music, etc.)
Spend time with your loved ones
Get outside if you can
Take Vitamins, especially vitamin D as SAD can be caused by a lack of vitamin D
Resources
Suicide Hotline: 800-273-8255
Self-Harm Hotline: 800-366-8288
HopeLine: 919-231-4525 or 1-877-235-4525
Suicide Prevention Services Depression Hotline: 630-482-9696
Sources