Seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression related to changes in seasons, begins and ends at about the same times every year. Most people with SAD start noticing symptoms in the fall, which continue into the winter months. SAD less often causes depression in the spring or early summer. Recognizing that these patterns exist helps individuals prepare for these recurring cycles and manage their wellness rather than feeling ambushed by them annually.
How Do Seasons Affect Wellness?
The primary driver behind seasonal mental health wellness shifts appears to be sunlight. Reduced levels of sunlight in fall and winter disrupt your body’s internal clock and lead to feelings of depression. The reduced sunlight can cause a drop in serotonin, a brain chemical that affects mood. This chemical shift may trigger depression.
Melatonin levels also play a role. The change in season can disrupt the balance of the body’s level of melatonin, which plays a role in sleep patterns and mood. In the darker months, the body may produce too much melatonin, leading to increased sleepiness and lethargy.
What Are the Symptoms?
Symptoms of seasonal mental health challenges vary depending on the time of year and the individual. For winter-onset SAD, symptoms often resemble those of major depression but follow a specific seasonal pattern. Individuals may experience a persistent low mood and lose interest in activities they once enjoyed. Low energy and sluggishness are common.
Changes in sleep and appetite are frequent indicators, as people often oversleep when affected by SAD. A specific craving for carbohydrates may lead to overeating and weight gain. Feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, or guilt can pervade daily thoughts. Summer-onset seasonal affective disorder, while rarer, presents differently. Agitation, anxiety, and episodes of violent behavior can occur. In both cases, difficulty concentrating becomes a significant hurdle. Mental fog makes it hard to focus at work or school, potentially impacting professional and academic performance.
How Is It Treated?
Addressing seasonal mental health issues often requires a multi-faceted approach that includes therapy. Psychotherapy is a well-recognized treatment for those experiencing seasonal mood shifts. It can help individuals identify negative thought patterns and adjust behaviors, fostering healthier coping strategies during difficult months. Medication may be recommended for some individuals. Antidepressants can help regulate serotonin levels, so doctors prescribe them before symptoms become severe to prevent the seasonal decline.
Vitamin D supplements may accompany other treatments. Since low vitamin D levels correlate with SAD, boosting this nutrient can support overall mood stability. Lifestyle adjustments provide support alongside medical interventions. Regular exercise boosts mood and energy and maintaining a regular sleep schedule helps regulate the circadian rhythm.
Seek Professional Therapy Services
While self-care strategies help, persistent symptoms warrant professional attention. A mental health professional can provide a proper diagnosis and rule out other conditions, such as thyroid problems or other types of depression. They may create a tailored treatment plan that combines therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. Early intervention prevents symptoms from escalating and helps maintain stability throughout the year. If seasonal changes consistently disrupt daily life, reaching out to a therapist provides the tools needed to navigate the changing seasons with resilience.
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