Seasonal Affective Disorder

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a mental health disorder characterized by mood disturbances (either periods of depression or mania) that has a seasonal pattern, often occurring in the winter months. The cause of this disorder is not fully known, but is thought to be related to light exposure during different seasons of the year. 


The symptoms of SAD are very similar to those of major depressive disorder. However, the differentiating factors between SAD and MDD is that symptoms appear and disappear around the same time each year. 


Symptoms of SAD can include: 

 

  • Depressed mood, lasting for more than two weeks
  • Impairment in work, school of social relationships 
  • Changes in appetite and weight
  • Sleep difficulties 
  • Loss of interest in hobbies, people, or sex 
  • Withdrawal from family and friends 
  • Feeling useless, hopeless, guilty, or having low self-esteem
  • Agitation or irritability 
  • Fatigue 
  • Trouble concentrating or making decisions 
  • Memory disturbances 
  • Increased tearfulness 
  • Thoughts of suicide 
  • A loss of touch with reality including hearing voices (hallucinations) or having strange ideas (delusions) 

 

How is Seasonal Affective Disorder treated?

Both light therapy and psychotherapy have been found to be effective treatments for SAD. Light therapy, also known as phototherapy, involves sitting in front of a special light box so that you are exposed to bright light. This light mimics outdoor light and has been found to cause changes in brain chemicals that are linked to mood. Additionally, cognitive behavioural therapy, a form of psychotherapy, has been found to help individuals with SAD identity and change thoughts that may be enhancing depressive feelings, learn healthy ways to cope with SAD, and learn how to manage stress in healthy ways. 

If you have experienced any of the above symptoms, with a consistent seasonal pattern, you may be suffering from seasonal affective disorder. Consider contacting us for a free 15-minutes consultation to see how we can help you to feel better year round!