Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) Symptoms, Treatments, and Management
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD), also known as winter depression or seasonal depression, is a form of sadness that mainly impacts the fall and winter seasons. It usually begins in the fall and continues through the winter, causing individuals with SAD to experience mood changes and symptoms resembling depression, such as irritability and reduced energy. Treatment for SAD may encompass medication, psychotherapy, light therapy, and lifestyle adjustments to effectively manage symptoms and improve overall mental health.
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
is a type of depression that's related to changes in seasons — SAD begins and ends at about the same times every year. If you're like most people with SAD, your symptoms start in the fall and continue into the winter months, sapping your energy and making you feel moody. These symptoms often resolve during the spring and summer months. Less often, SAD causes depression in the spring or early summer and resolves during the fall or winter months.
Written by: Mayo Clinic Staff
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Who is at risk for Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
is more common in younger people and women. You're also at higher risk if you:
Have another mood disorder, such as major disorder or bipolar disorder.
Have relatives with SAD or other forms of depression or mental health conditions, such as major depression or schizophrenia.
Live at latitudes far north or far south from the equator. There's less sunlight during the winter at these latitudes.
Live in cloudy regions.
Written by: Cleveland Clinic Staff
Visit Cleveland Clinic to Learn MoreHow is SAD diagnosed?
If you think you may be suffering from SAD, talk to your health care provider or a mental health specialist about your concerns. They may have you fill out specific questionnaires to determine if your symptoms meet the criteria for SAD.
Who develops SAD?
Millions of American adults may suffer from SAD, although many may not know they have the condition. SAD occurs much more often in women than in men, and it is more common in those living farther north, where there are shorter daylight hours in the winter. For example, people living in Alaska or New England may be more likely to develop SAD than people living in Florida. In most cases, SAD begins in young adulthood.
Written by: National Institute of Mental Health Staff
Visit National Institute of Mental Health to Learn MoreHow is seasonal affective disorder (SAD) treated?
Seasonal Depression (Seasonal Affective Disorder)
Your provider will talk to you about treatment options. You may need a combination of treatments, including:
Light therapy: Bright light therapy, using a special lamp, can help treat SAD.
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Visit Cleveland Clinic to Learn MoreWhat are the signs and symptoms of SAD?
SAD is not considered a separate disorder but is a type of depression characterized by its recurrent seasonal pattern, with symptoms lasting about 4 to 5 months per year. Therefore, the signs and symptoms of SAD include those associated with major depression, and some specific symptoms that differ for winter-pattern and summer-pattern SAD. Not every person with SAD will experience all of the symptoms listed below.
Written by: National Institute of Mental Health Staff
Visit National Institute of Mental Health to Learn MoreWhat tests will I need to diagnose seasonal affective disorder (SAD)?
Seasonal Depression (Seasonal Affective Disorder)
There's no blood test or scan to diagnose seasonal depression. Still, your provider may recommend testing to rule out other conditions that cause similar symptoms, including testing your thyroid to make sure it’s functioning properly.
Written by: Cleveland Clinic Staff
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What are the criteria for a seasonal affective disorder (SAD) diagnosis?
Your provider may diagnose you with SAD if you have:
Symptoms of major depression.
Depressive episodes that occur during specific seasons for at least two consecutive years.
Depressive episodes happening more frequently during a specific season than during the rest of the year.
Written by: Cleveland Clinic Staff
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). When should I go to the emergency room?
Seasonal Depression (Seasonal Affective Disorder)
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). When should I go to the emergency room?
If you or a loved one has suicidal thoughts, get help. Call your provider, go to an emergency room, call 911 or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, at 800.273.8255. This national network of local crisis centers provides free, confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. It's available 24/7.
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