What is SAD?
Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, is a type of depression that tends to strike at certain times of the year, most commonly when the seasons shift. During these spells, many people feel unusually drained or simply “off.”
Occasionally, symptoms appear during spring and summer—this is known as summer-pattern SAD. While some experience mild but noticeable changes, others face more intense mood swings, difficulty thinking clearly, and disruptions to daily life that can sometimes develop into serious depressive episodes.
SAD is essentially depression linked to a seasonal schedule. Its symptoms usually last for four to five months each year and range in intensity. Common signs include:
- Lack of interest in once-enjoyed activities
- Changes in eating habits or weight
- Sleep disturbances
- Fatigue or restlessness
- Low energy levels
- Feelings of despair or worthlessness
- Trouble concentrating
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
Winter-pattern SAD often brings:
- Strong cravings for carbohydrates
- Noticeable weight gain
- A tendency to withdraw from others
Summer-pattern SAD symptoms might include:
- Difficulty sleeping
- Loss of appetite and weight drop
- Jitteriness or restlessness
- Increased anxiety
- Irritable or aggressive outbursts
What Causes SAD?
Research shows SAD is more common in women and often coexists with other mood disorders like major depression or bipolar disorder. Even though it can appear in family members, it isn’t classified as a purely genetic condition.
People with SAD frequently struggle to regulate serotonin levels, and shorter winter days can worsen this imbalance. Elevated melatonin—known for promoting sleepiness—can also throw off both rest patterns and mood, creating a cycle that saps energy and well-being.
Treating Seasonal Affective Disorder
There are several effective ways to manage SAD, which can be tailored or combined according to each person’s situation:
- Talk therapy (psychotherapy)
- Antidepressant medications
- Vitamin D supplements when levels are low
Finding relief from seasonal affective disorder can uplift your mood year-round. With the right support, people living with SAD often see fewer and milder episodes, sharpen their coping skills, strengthen relationships, stay on top of work, and enjoy a richer quality of life. At Alice’s Psychiatry & Wellness, our virtual care model provides accessible, consistent, and compassionate treatment led by licensed professionals. By combining evidence-based therapy with precise medication monitoring, clients gain lasting strategies to manage SAD and feel empowered to steer their own mental health journey.
Our dedicated psychiatric care team is ready to assist you.
Seasonal Affective Disorder often appears when daylight hours shorten or lengthen, usually in the fall or spring. Turning to a clinic like Alice’s Psychiatry & Wellness can help you overcome the winter blues and feel like yourself again. Book an appointment today to start finding the relief you need.