The change in seasons may bring more than just colder weather. Many people suffer from a type of cyclical depression referred to as seasonal affective disorder or SAD. SAD occurs mostly in the fall and winter months, but occasionally may occur in the spring and summer. Shorter days, winter cloud cover and geographic location are common factors that influence this disorder.   

The condition is not long term and symptoms usually disappear once the seasonal temperatures warm up and the days become longer and brighter. Symptoms reappear the subsequent year. Symptoms of SAD include: increased appetite, decrease social interactions, lethargy, fatigue, sleep disturbances and feelings of sadness. Sufferers from SAD tend to crave carbohydrates during these months—leading to further weight gain.

   The theory behind seasonal affective disorder is that decreased exposure to sunlight in the fall and winter months affects our circadian rhythms, the body’s naturally occurring sleep-wake cycle—thereby affecting two specific chemicals in the brain called serotonin and melatonin. Serotonin levels influence our moods while melatonin affects our sleep cycles.

   The stress of the holiday seasons may worsen the symptoms of SAD. There is no specific diagnostic test for this particular disorder—though certain test may rule out other potential conditions. A healthcare professional will make a diagnosis of seasonal affective disorder based on psychological, social and symptom assessments gathered from a patient interview.

People living closer to Polar regions are far more likely to be affected by SAD than those living closer to the equator, although it’s not uncommon to find people suffering from seasonal affective disorder along the Gulf Coast.

   Seasonal affective disorder was formally identified in 1984 at the National Institute of Mental Health by Dr. Norman Rosenthal, along with his associates. Though there may be different variations of seasonal affective disorder, it should not be assumed for people who simply have lower energy levels during colder months—a normal occurrence.  

   Women are more likely than men to suffer from this condition. The common age range of sufferers is from 15 – 55, although the risk decreases with age for unknown reasons. Between four to six percent of people suffer from seasonal affective disorder on average in the U.S., while another 10-20% suffers from a milder form of the condition—often referred to as simply, “the winter blues.”

 Dr. Andy Manchikes, an Emergency Room physician—who is also an avid bicyclist and mountain occasionally sees people he believes to be suffering from seasonal affective disorder.   

 “It’s difficult to determine, initially, if a person is suffering from seasonal affective disorder due to the fact that people come in the ER with other psychological conditions present, such as suicidal thoughts or extreme depression”, says Dr. Manchikes.

Dr. Manchikes goes on to describe how seasonal change affects healthy people such as outdoor athletes.

  “Decreases in daylight hours reduce the amount of time in training—thus reducing the amount exercise people get.”

 Dr. Manchikes adds, “Physical exertion is what keeps many people, including myself, content and fights off feelings of depression in the winter.”

   Although seasonal affective disorder may not always be a person’s primary diagnosis, when combined with other mental health problems, it may lead to deeper forms of depression and anxiety.

Besides causing a decline in physical stamina, SAD can cause a decrease in job performance and affect our personal relationships. Academic performance may be affected due to the inability to concentrate because of sleep pattern disturbances.    

   Treatment for seasonal affective disorder includes medications, light therapy, and personal counseling.

 Light therapy, also known as phototherapy, is performed by sitting in front of a special lighted box for 30-60 minutes a day, which mimics natural sunlight. These boxes can be purchased for less than $200 and can be used to treat a variety of depressions.

   In some parts of the world, such as Scandinavian countries and the Northern United Kingdom—where sunlight is obscured by dense clouds for most of the fall and winter, light boxes can be found in coffee shops and lounges whereby patrons use them at their leisure for a nominal fee.

   Taking walks or exercising during daylight hours—especially in direct sunlight—is also helpful as exercise releases endorphins, the body natural “feel good” chemicals. These endorphins make us feel more elated, while exercise promotes a better quality of sleep.

   Hormone supplements such as melatonin can be used to relieve symptoms of SAD for some people, while others may be placed on seasonal rounds of antidepressants.

Negatively charged air particles are found in the environment during the spring and summer months. Such particles are found in high numbers on seashores having been created by ocean waves—hence, why we may feel revitalized at the beach. Therefore, negative ionized air administration (releasing high levels of charged particles into the environment) has effective results—especially when used along with phototherapy. This is accomplished by using a special air flow system.

Vacationing or traveling to a warmer climate during the winter months may help—if only temporarily—with the symptoms of SAD. Traveling with friends and family may also enhance the social experience and further reduce depression.

  Finally, just talking about your feelings to a counselor or in group sessions, will have beneficial results.

Although there is no known way to prevent the occurrence seasonal affective disorder, early detection and treatment will prevent or minimize the impact of the symptoms. Those previously diagnosed with seasonal affective disorder, should begin their treatment plan prior to the fall and winter months to avoid symptoms before they begin to appear.

Treatment responses greatly differ among individuals. Some forms of treatment may be combined for optimal results.

   SAD can be difficult to diagnose and may even be concealed by other medical and psychological conditions. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of seasonal affective disorder, consult a healthcare or mental health professional for an evaluation.