ARE YOU sad or SAD?

The transitions between seasons often bring about many natural changes. With longer days and shorter nights, the switch from winter to summer can prove to be a happy one for many individuals: so why might it be affecting you differently?

What is Depression? Depression is an extremely common, yet serious medical condition that can negatively affect the way you feel and even act. Some common symptoms include feelings of emptiness, sadness, or anxiety for most of the day for more than 2 weeks, feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, frustration, or restlessness, struggles with energy levels, difficulty concentrating on or enjoying activities, sleep or appetite changes, and even suicidal thoughts.

What is Seasonal Affect Disorder? Seasonal Affect Disorder (SAD) is a form of depression, so many symptoms of depression show in people suffering from SAD. SAD occurs seasonally, or during the summer or winter seasons and lasts around 5 months. Winter SAD symptoms include oversleeping, overeating, and social withdrawal. Summer SAD symptoms include trouble sleeping, reduced appetite, restlessness, irritability, anxiety, and sometimes even violent behavior. These changes are due to changes in daylight hours, not changes in calendar events around these seasons like seasonal work changes, holidays, or breaks. It is easy to confuse situational depression and SAD.

How do I know if I am experiencing Seasonal Affect Disorder? If you feel that you or someone you know may be experiencing the symptoms above, it is important to get in contact with a mental healthcare provider and discuss the symptoms you may be having. Feelings or behavior changes that are related to depression should never be taken lightly, as symptoms have a chance to worsen. Your mental healthcare provider will be able to diagnose your condition to see if you are experiencing SAD winter or summer conditions during the appropriate season.

Is it abnormal to experience Seasonal Affect Disorder? Not at all! You are in no way weird or abnormal for experiencing these symptoms, and you should not be ashamed. Estimates show that around 10 million Americans suffer from SAD, so this is a common condition. So please, do not hide your symptoms or suffer in silence. Reach out to a mental healthcare provider and get the conversation started as to how you can begin coping and recovering from these symptoms!