Recognizing Seasonal Affective Disorder

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs with seasonal changes, most often beginning in the fall and continuing through winter. It involves recurring symptoms such as low energy, persistent sadness, and changes in sleep patterns that appear at the same time each year. While often mistaken for simple “winter blues,” SAD can significantly affect daily functioning. It is more common in regions with limited daylight and often starts in young adulthood, with women affected more frequently.

Recognizing these yearly patterns makes it easier to identify when symptoms may reflect SAD rather than normal mood shifts. Noticing consistent changes as the seasons transition can help individuals seek appropriate support and find strategies to manage symptoms during the darker months.

Recognizing Seasonal Affective Disorder

Understanding Seasonal Depression

Seasonal affective disorder is not just the winter blues. In the Diagnostic Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), it states that SAD is a type of depression, categorized as a major depressive disorder with seasonal patterns.

People with SAD sometimes describe the symptoms as incapacitating. These symptoms can impact daily functioning and affect everyday activities. Symptoms are often overwhelming and can cause mood swings.

In the USA, around five percent of adults suffer from SAD. Though it affects both genders, women are more susceptible.
SAD, also called winter depression, can trouble all of us. However, seasonal affective disorder is most prevalent in the 18 to 30-year-old age group. The symptoms are similar to those associated with more common forms of depression.

Some symptoms of SAD are apparent, while others are more subtle. Symptoms can be mild or severe; some will give rise to others. Research suggests vitamin D supplements may help prevent the onset of symptoms and relieve symptoms in mild cases.

Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) causes clear changes in mood, behavior, physical health, and thinking. These changes usually begin in the fall and winter when daylight decreases. Understanding these specific signs helps people identify SAD early and seek help.

Disinterest, Displeasure, or Loss of Interest

Activities that are usually pleasurable and enjoyable may no longer feel that way. They can become uninteresting, and there may be little motivation to engage in them at all.

Change in Appetite

Some individuals will have a sudden increase or decrease in appetite. These symptoms can lead to unhealthy weight gain or weight loss.

Changing Sleeping Patterns

Irregular sleep patterns can create a cycle of oversleeping and being overtired. Oversleeping can lead to lethargy, resulting in low energy and persistent fatigue. Motivation often decreases, and energy levels may feel too low to manage even simple tasks.

Incoherence and Indecision

People with SAD may find it difficult to focus, think clearly, or communicate their thoughts. This disruption in concentration can lead to indecision and brief, dismissive responses such as “whatever” or “I don’t care.”

Restlessness and Discontent

Restlessness and unease may lead to fidgeting or aimless movements, while speech and actions can become slowed or exaggerated.

Isolating Behavior

SAD can cause people to withdraw from others in a way that goes beyond simply needing personal time. Unlike brief moments of solitude to rest or recharge, this isolation often involves dwelling on negative feelings without relief, even while feeling restless or unsettled.

Negative Feelings

Persistent sadness without a clear cause is common in SAD. Feelings of worthlessness and guilt can harm mental health, often leading individuals to blame themselves for imagined problems or challenges.

Thoughts of Suicide

Building on the negative feelings caused by not understanding ourselves, serving no purpose, and feeling worthless, the next seemingly “logical” step is suicide. This goes hand in hand with wanting to isolate and be away from people whom we perceive to add no benefit, and rather that we are a burden on all.

Seeking help from a mental health professional immediately. Evidence shows that cognitive behavioral therapy can be effective in the treatment of SAD.

The Importance of Early Recognition

Early recognition of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) plays a key role in managing the condition effectively. When symptoms are noticed soon, individuals can seek help before the disorder worsens.

Symptoms like low mood, changes in sleep, and loss of interest in daily activities may start subtly. Identifying these early signs allows for timely action.

Benefits of early recognition include:

• Improved treatment results
• Reduced symptom severity
• Better daily functioning
• Prevention of deeper depression

SAD often follows a seasonal pattern, usually starting in late fall or early winter. Because it recurs each year, understanding when symptoms begin helps people prepare and cope better.

Treatment options such as light therapy, counseling, or medication work best when started early. Waiting too long can lead to stronger symptoms that are harder to manage.

People who recognize their symptoms early can also build routines to support their mental health during challenging months. This includes regular exercise, social interaction, and exposure to natural light.

Knowing the early signs of SAD helps reduce its impact and improve quality of life. It allows for better support and faster recovery during seasonal changes.

If you have thoughts of committing suicide, talk with a loved one immediately or contact the National Suicide Prevention Hotline (1-800-273-8255) ASAP.

Treatment

Discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider. The happy news is you can treat SAD. You’re not alone!

Additional Reading: SAD Treatment: Light Therapy

Blue Sky Counseling Omaha – Mental Health Counseling

I, Carly Spring, M.S., LIMHP, LADC, CPC, offer my specialized expertise to assist in the healing process to anyone who may be experiencing and suffering from a vast spectrum of mental health issues. Such mental health issues include behavioral problems, anxiety, depression, grief, loss, trauma, addiction issues, and life transitions. I believe strongly in applying a holistic perspective addressing your whole person not just the bits and pieces of you. Contact us with any questions or to discuss mental health services in Omaha today.