As the weather gets colder and days get gloomier, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) resurfaces in affected individuals — which include 10 million Americans with women being four times more likely than men to be affected, according to “Seasonal Affective Disorder Affects 10 Million Americans. Are You One of Them?” by science writer Madeleine O’Keefe.
Despite seasonal depression being associated with cold weather, this period is not limited to autumn to winter. Although it is less common, some people experience SAD in the summer to spring according to O’Keefe.
SAD tends to be brushed off as fleeting feelings of winter blues by those that are unaffected, even though the reality of the disorder runs deeper than that for many individuals. Although SAD is not an incessant disorder like other types of depression tend to be, it has many of the same effects on an individual. These symptoms include “loss of interest or enjoyment in activities, a decrease in energy, a depressed mood, and low self-esteem,” according to “Seasonal Affective Disorder” by MedlinePlus. Additionally, the disorder can cause suicidal thoughts and disturbance in sleep patterns, according to MedlinePlus.
The stereotype that seasonal depression is a simple feeling of short-term sadness can be invalidating and cause these individuals to be reluctant to seek help and open up to others. A person who feels that no one understands or cares for them may resort to isolation, self-harm, and destructive behaviors such as displaying inappropriate anger or committing suicide.
Rather than brushing off signs that one may have SAD, seeking professional help is necessary for the betterment and peace of those who suffer from it. Considering that SAD is a form of depression, receiving proper treatment and taking symptoms seriously is advisable. Without proper treatment, depression can last for years, depending on the person. Like other types of depression, some ways to alleviate symptoms include exercising, confiding in a trusted person, journaling, and getting adequate amounts of sleep. Treatments include exposure to sunlight, light therapy, psychotherapy, and antidepressants, according to “Seasonal Affective Disorder” by John Hopkins Medicine.
While there is still much to learn about the causes and treatments for SAD, it is necessary as a society to accept and validate those that are affected by the disorder as their experiences should be equally acknowledged as those with other mental illnesses.