MENTAL HEALTH
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Seasonal affective disorder is legitimate, and seeking help is essential.
Seasonal mental illness, also known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD), is a type of depression that occurs at specific times of the year. It is commonly associated with the change in seasons, particularly the transition from fall to winter, but it can also occur during the spring or summer months, although less frequently.
The exact cause of seasonal affective disorder is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to reduced exposure to sunlight during winter. The decrease in sunlight can disrupt the body’s internal clock, affect serotonin levels (a neurotransmitter involved in mood regulation), and disrupt melatonin levels (a hormone that regulates sleep patterns). These disruptions can lead to symptoms of depression.
Common symptoms of seasonal affective disorder may include:
- Persistent sadness or low mood
- Lack of energy and fatigue
- Increased sleep or difficulty sleeping
- Changes in appetite, particularly cravings for carbohydrates
- Weight gain
- Difficulty concentrating
