Seasonal depression, often called seasonal affective disorder (SAD), is a depression that occurs each year at the same time, usually starting in fall or winter and ending in spring or early summer. It is more than just "the winter blues" or "cabin fever." A rare form of SAD known as "summer depression," begins in late spring or early summer and ends in fall.
Symptoms
People who suffer from SAD have many of the common signs of depression: Sadness, anxiety, irritability, loss of interest in their usual activities, withdrawal from social activities, and inability to concentrate. They often have symptoms such as extreme fatigue and lack of energy, increased need for sleep, craving for carbohydrates, and increased appetite and weight gain.
Symptoms of winter SAD include:
Fatigue
Increased need for sleep
Decreased levels of energy
Weight gain
Increase in appetite
Difficulty concentrating
Increased desire to be alone
Symptoms of summer SAD include:
Weight loss
Trouble sleeping
Decreased appetite
This illness is more commonly seen in people who live at high latitudes (geographic locations farther north or south of the equator), where seasonal changes are more extreme. It is estimated that 1 percent of Florida residents, 4 percent of Washington, D.C. residents, and nearly 10 percent of Alaska residents suffer from SAD.
How can I tell if I have SAD?
It is very important that you do not diagnose yourself. If you have symptoms of depression, see your doctor for a thorough assessment. Sometimes physical problems can cause depression. But other times, symptoms of SAD are part of a more complex psychiatric problem.
A health professional should be the person to determine the level of depression and recommend the right form of treatment.
If you have been diagnosed with SAD, here are some things you can do to help to prevent it from coming back:
Try to spend some amount of time outside every day, even when it's very cloudy. The effects of daylight are still beneficial.
Begin using a light box upon the onset of low sunlight (fall season), even before you feel the onset of winter SAD.
Eat a well-balanced diet and include sufficient amounts of vitamins and minerals as recommended by the FDA. This will help you have more energy even though your body is craving starchy and sweet foods.
Try exercising for 30 minutes a day, three times a week.
Seek professional counseling, if needed, during the winter months.
Stay involved with your social circle and regular activities. This can be a tremendous means of support during winter months.