Are You Suffering From Seasonal Depression?

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that typically affects people during the fall and winter months. Here are some key points about SAD:

Timing and Prevalence
SAD most commonly occurs during late fall and winter when there is less natural sunlight. About 5% of adults in the U.S. experience SAD, with symptoms usually lasting about 40% of the year. Some estimates suggest up to 20% of people may experience a milder form called “winter blues

Causes
The exact cause is unknown, but several factors likely contribute:
– Circadian rhythm disruption: Reduced sunlight in fall/winter can disrupt the body’s internal clock2.
– Serotonin levels: Less sunlight may lead to a drop in serotonin, a mood-regulating neurotransmitter2.
– Melatonin imbalance: Changing seasons can disrupt melatonin levels, affecting sleep and mood2.
Symptoms

Common symptoms of SAD include:
– Feeling depressed most days
– Loss of interest in activities
– Low energy and fatigue
– Sleep problems (usually oversleeping)