Don’t ignore the winter blues, it could be seasonal depression

Summary: As daylight falls, many experience fatigue or low mood, but for millions, these symptoms indicate seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a severe form of depression. Reduced sunlight disrupts serotonin, melatonin, and the body’s circadian rhythm, causing feelings of hopelessness, loss of interest, and changes in sleep or appetite.

Experts warn that SAD may reflect major depressive disorder and is more common in the winter months, especially in northern regions. Treatments such as light therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and regular exercise can help rebalance mood and restore energy.

Key facts

Sunlight and Mood: Reduced daylight disrupts serotonin, melatonin, and sleep-wake cycles, triggering depressive symptoms. Recognizable pattern: Symptoms usually begin in fall, peak in winter, and disappear in spring. Effective treatments: Phototherapy, medications, and CBT can improve symptoms; Starting early in the season helps prevention.

Source: West Virginia University

As the days get shorter, don’t just ignore the winter blues.

A clinical psychologist at West Virginia University warns that seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, is a type of depression that affects millions of Americans and should be taken seriously.

Stephanie Cox, professor in the Department of Behavioral Medicine and Psychiatry, part of the WVU Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute at the WVU School of Medicine, is available to discuss how to identify the causes and symptoms of SAD, as well as treatments that can provide relief.

Quotes:

“Seasonal affective disorder occurs at certain times of the year, most often during the winter and especially in northern latitudes. The symptoms are thought to be related to reduced exposure to natural sunlight. This decrease in light can affect neurotransmitters in the brain, such as melatonin and serotonin, and disrupt the body’s circadian rhythm.

“Many people feel a little lower in mood or energy when the days are shorter. However, SAD involves a set of symptoms that persist and significantly interfere with daily life.

“People with SAD may experience increased or interrupted sleep, loss of interest in activities, difficulty concentrating, feelings of hopelessness, and changes in appetite or food cravings.

“Because SAD is considered a type of depressive disorder, its symptoms can be very similar and sometimes identical to those of major depressive disorder. The risk is higher among younger people, women, people with a family history of SAD, and people with existing mood or mental health conditions.

“In winter-pattern SAD, symptoms typically begin in the fall, last through the winter months, and improve with the arrival of spring and longer daylight hours.

“People who have experienced this predictable pattern may benefit from starting treatment or preventative strategies in early fall. Talking with a healthcare provider can help identify the best treatment options and timing for their specific situation.

“Phototherapy is one of the most common and effective treatments, and consists of sitting in front of a special light box that emits 10,000 lux of white light for 30 to 60 minutes daily during winter.

“Other helpful treatments may include medications, cognitive behavioral therapy, and lifestyle changes, such as exercise and maintaining a regular sleep schedule.” — Stephanie Cox, professor of bariatric psychology and eating disorders, Department of Behavioral Medicine and Psychiatry, WVU School of Medicine and WVU Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute

Key questions answered:

About this research news on SAD and mental health

Author: Linda Skidmore
Source: West Virginia University
Contact: Linda Skidmore – West Virginia University
Image: Image is credited to Neuroscience News.