Is It Just the Winter Blues? Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

Do you often find yourself staying in bed longer and struggling to stay focused, or even finding the energy to complete your tasks? Shifts in energy levels are not uncommon, but if they persist in a way that causes others or you to notice an apparent change in behavior, it may be something worth investigating.

With the temperatures dropping and the days getting shorter, the risk of developing seasonal affective disorder (SAD) increases. SAD is a form of depression that follows a seasonal pattern and is influenced by low sunlight, disrupted circadian rhythms, and lower serotonin levels.

However, you do not have to wait until spring to feel better. Our experts at VP MindCare explain why SAD occurs, how it manifests, and what steps you can take to start feeling better as soon as possible.

Understanding SAD

SAD is more than feeling gloomy on a rainy day. It causes a pattern of persistent sadness, low motivation, increased sleep, changes in appetite, and difficulty concentrating. Some may also withdraw socially or struggle to keep up with work and deadlines.

Researchers believe SAD occurs due to a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors. Here are some of the main contributors:

• Reduced sunlight exposure
• Overproduction of melatonin
• Low production of serotonin
• Vitamin D deficiency
• Genetics and family history
• Existing mental health conditions (those suffering from anxiety and bipolar are at a higher risk of developing SAD)

With less exposure to sunlight, melatonin, the sleep hormone, can increase, while serotonin, which regulates mood, decreases. SAD does not affect everyone, but in people who are more sensitive to these changes and already more prone to depression, the seasonal shift can make a big impact.

Available treatments

Treatments vary by individual, but SAD is highly treatable and often addressed with light therapy, which mimics natural sunlight. To help patients cope with low moods and changes in concentration and energy, therapy or medication may also be recommended.

Don’t ignore your symptoms

SAD may seem like a condition that is not so serious because it eases in the spring, but in some people it can lead to serious complications, including social withdrawal, difficulty keeping a job, anxiety, eating disorders, and suicidal thoughts or behavior.

Seeking support does not have to wait until things get worse. If you’re struggling in any way, please contact us to schedule an appointment at our office, located in Anchorage, Alaska. Our compassionate team of professionals does its best to help you improve your quality of life during the cold season.