More than just Winter blues: Seasonal affective disorder

As the seasons change, so does our mood. While many people experience the joy of summer or the coziness of winter, for some, the shift in seasons brings changes in their mood or energy level. 

Usually, these changes are relatively mild and go away on their own. But sometimes, these mood changes are more serious and can affect how a person feels, thinks, and behaves. If you notice significant changes in mood and behavior when the seasons change, you or your loved ones may be experiencing Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Many people are not aware that seasonal affective disorder can occur in both winter and summer; mood changes in winter are more common. 

Mental health therapists at Samvedna Care highlight and answer questions about Seasonal Affective Disorder. 

SAD symptoms, in most cases, start in the fall or early winter and go away during the spring and summer, known as winter pattern SAD, whereas other people experience depressive symptoms during the spring and summer months, known as summer pattern SAD. Winter and summer SAD have opposite symptoms. People with winter depression may experience: 

1. Low Energy Levels: Individuals with winter-onset SAD often struggle with fatigue and a noticeable decrease in energy levels.
2. Mood Changes: Feeling persistently low, irritable, or anxious is common during winter. SAD can intensify existing depressive symptoms.
3. Changes in Sleep Patterns: Oversleeping, difficulty waking up, and disruptions in the sleep-wake cycle are hallmark symptoms of SAD.
4. Weight Gain: Increased cravings for carbohydrates and subsequent weight gain are frequent occurrences in individuals with winter-related SAD.

Symptoms of summer depression include: 

1. Insomnia or Disturbed Sleep: Summer-onset SAD may lead to difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
2. Restlessness and Agitation: Unlike the lethargy associated with winter SAD, summer SAD can manifest as restlessness, making it challenging for individuals to relax.
3. Decreased Appetite: Loss of appetite and weight loss are common symptoms during the summer months.
4. Heightened Anxiety: Increased sunlight can contribute to heightened anxiety levels in individuals with summer-onset SAD.

The symptoms of SAD can vary widely in severity.  Certain factors increase susceptibility to SAD. Geographical location plays a role, with higher latitudes experiencing more pronounced seasonal changes. Additionally, age, gender, and a family history of mood disorders contribute to risk. Individuals with pre-existing mental health conditions, such as major depressive disorder, may also find themselves more vulnerable to seasonal shifts in mood. 

Seasonal Affective Disorder Vs Depression

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and depression share similarities but differ in critical aspects. SAD exhibits a seasonal pattern, with symptoms occurring during specific times of the year, notably in fall and winter (Winter Pattern SAD) or spring and summer (Summer Pattern SAD). On the contrary, depression, or Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), is not bound by seasonal changes and can persist throughout the year. 

The onset and remission of SAD symptoms are tied to seasonal shifts, while depression can occur at any time and for more extended periods. SAD symptoms vary based on the season, including increased sleep and weight gain in winter or insomnia and decreased appetite in summer. 

Treatment approaches differ, with light therapy and counselling often used for SAD and a range of interventions, including psychotherapy and medication, for depression. It’s essential to recognize these distinctions for accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment. At Samvedna Care, our mental health therapists are dedicated to helping you navigate the complexities of Seasonal Affective Disorder. We’re here to address your questions, provide support, and foster understanding. Together, let’s unravel the seasonal mysteries that impact mental well-being and pave the way for brighter, more resilient seasons ahead.