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More Than Just "The Winter Blues": Seasonal Affective Disorder

Posted on: February 10, 2021 - 10:41am
SAD Snowman

Haven't been feeling like your usual self lately? You may be suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) or Seasonal Depression.

Millions of Americans have this reoccurring depression for about 4 to 5 months out of the year due to the shorter days in the fall and winter. Symptoms for this specific type of depression include:

  • Oversleeping (hypersomnia)
  • Overeating, particularly with a craving for carbohydrates
  • Weight gain
  • Social withdrawal (feeling like “hibernating”)

Treatments are available that can help many people with SAD. They fall into four main categories that may be used alone or in combination: (Talk to your health care provider about which treatment, or combination of treatments, is best for you).

  • Light therapy
  • Psychotherapy
  • Antidepressant medications
  • Vitamin D

If you think you may be suffering from SAD, talk to your health care provider or a mental health specialist about your concerns. You may also visit our Mental Health Resources to find a list of local and national services.

Learn more about Seasonal Affective Disorder here.