What is seasonal affective disorder and is SAD different to depression?
SEASONAL affective disorder (SAD) can be extremely challenging for those who find themselves suffering with the return of cold, shorter and darker days.
But what is the disorder, what are the symptoms and how is it treated? Here’s what we know…
What is seasonal affective disorder?
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a mood disorder or a type of depression that’s related to changes in seasons.
Unlike depression, where symptoms can occur at any period of time, people who suffer from the condition can display normal mental health through most of the year.
SAD usually begins and ends at about the same times every year, with symptoms typically start in the autumn and continue into the winter months, with those suffering from a lack of energy and mood swings.
In some cases, SAD can also lead to depression.
While experts were sceptical about SAD, sometimes known as winter depression, it is now recognised as a common disorder.
It is estimated that three in 100 people in the UK will suffer from the condition at some point in their lives.
Is SAD the same as depression?
SAD is a condition where depression is felt seasonally but the individual has normal mental health for the rest of the year.
It’s common to be affected by changing seasons and weather, or to have times of year when you feel more or less comfortable.
For example, you might find that your mood or energy levels drop when it gets colder or warmer, or notice changes in your sleeping or eating patterns.
But if your feelings are interfering with your day to day life, it could be a sign that you have depression.
And if they keep coming back at the same time of year, doctors might call this seasonal affective disorder or ‘seasonal depression’.
People are typically most severely affected in from November through to March, and often report feeling ‘back to normal’ in spring and summer months.
What are the symptoms of SAD?
The NHS lists the following symptoms for SAD:
- a persistent low mood
- a loss of pleasure or interest in normal everyday activities
- irritability
- feelings of despair, guilt and worthlessness
- feeling lethargic (lacking in energy) and sleepy during the day
- sleeping for longer than normal and finding it hard to get up in the morning
- craving carbohydrates and gaining weight
Other symptoms can also include:
- finding it hard to concentrate
- not wanting to socialise
- being more prone to physical health problems, such as colds, infections or other illnesses
- losing interest in sex or physical contact
- suicidal feelings
- other symptoms of depression.
What is the treatment for SAD?
It’s not clear what causes the condition, although the main theory is that the depression is caused by a lack of sunlight.
If you think you are suffering from SAD and you are struggling to cope you should seek advice from your GP.
The GP is likely to recommend a number of treatment options including:
- Getting as much sunlight as possible
- Exercising regularly
- Managing stress levels
- Light therapy – with a special light box that simulates sunlight
- Counselling and other talking therapies
- Anti-depression medication
What if I don’t feel better?
Your doctor should offer you regular appointments to check how you’re doing, and see how well any treatment is working for you.
Different things work for different people, and if a particular medication or talking therapy doesn’t work for you, your doctor should be able to offer an alternative.
If you’ve tried a range of treatments and none of them have helped, your doctor might refer you for further support.