Navigating through the winter breeze can be difficult. The cold weather, occasional snowfall, icy roads, and the upcoming final exams can overwhelm us. Just as the weather changes, our mindsets and routines shift as well. Two hormones, melatonin and serotonin, play a vital role in keeping us active and helping us maintain a balanced schedule, especially with shorter days and longer nights. Because of this, we are exposed to less sunlight, resulting in lower levels of hormones, which lead to Seasonal Affective Disorder, abbreviated as SAD or fall-winter SAD.
Seasonal Affective Disorder is a type of depression affecting millions of individuals during the winter months. It is characterized by fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and changes in sleep patterns. People with SAD may also experience sluggishness, an appetite for sweeter foods, loss of interest, inability to socialize, and a general feeling of hopelessness. While there is a type of SAD that affects people in the spring and summer, this is less common than the fall-winter variant.
The exact cause of SAD is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to the changes in sunlight exposure during winter. The reduced exposure can disrupt the body’s internal clock and lead to imbalances in serotonin and melatonin levels. SAD runs in families due to genetic risk factors relating to depression and Bipolar Disorder, which increase the likelihood of having SAD.
Seasonal Affective Disorder is diagnosed more often in women than in men, with a reported female-to-male ratio of 4:1 according to AAFG. SAD occurs more frequently in younger adults than in older adults. Mental Health America states that about 5% of the U.S. population is affected by SAD each year.
A survey conducted with 37 students about Seasonal Affective Disorder revealed that 40.5% did not have SAD, while 59.5% were uncertain about their diagnosis. Among students regardless of diagnosis, 56.8% experienced sluggishness, 48.6% had daytime drowsiness, 40.5% dealt with anxiety and social withdrawal, 35.1% struggled with concentrating, 27% lost interest in activities or craved unhealthy foods, and 24.3% said they had trouble sleeping or did not follow a regular outside schedule. Additionally, many found the cold weather, stress from exams, and holiday chores like shopping to be difficult during the season.
Various strategies can help cope with SAD, like light therapy, which involves exposure to bright artificial light to elevate mood and comfort symptoms. Regular physical exercise and maintaining a healthy diet can contribute to overall well-being. “I think many people don’t go outside as much and there are not as many activities to do in the winter as the summer,” said one student. “So many people are at home a lot more not doing anything which can make them get lost in a bad trail of thoughts.”
Reaching out for social support and considering professional help can provide further assistance in managing the disorder. If you or a loved one is experiencing Seasonal Affective Disorder, don’t hesitate to consult a mental healthcare provider who specializes in these conditions, like a psychiatrist or a psychologist. Taking this step is vital for your well-being!
