Feeling SAD? Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder and Its Symptoms

By: Shedeka Richards, RCC

As the months change and the seasons transition from one to the next, so do our moods and levels of hormones that circulate all throughout our nervous systems.

What is SAD?  This is a form of depression lasting at least 4-5 months out of a year and is characterized by seasonal pattern changes. SAD can be considered as either summer-pattern SAD which is usually experienced throughout summer months or winter-pattern SAD.

Winter Pattern-SAD especially affects us in colder months such as fall leading into our snowy wintery months, and this usually results in lower energy levels and more frequent mood swings.  This special type of depression is a result of decreased hours of sunlight that is experienced.  Due to having this reduction in sunlight, our body’s seasonal day-night cycle becomes drastically interrupted, and this normally results in us having increased levels of melatonin and reduced levels of serotonin.

Many of us here in Canada go through long, dark and gloomy winter months.  Are you finding that the colder or wintery months have been taking a toll on your energy levels and mood?  This could be your first step in identifying whether or not this might be “SAD.”

Some Symptoms of SAD might include:

1. Withdrawal from family and friends
2. Feelings of hopelessness and persistent low mood and energy
3. Reduced concentration
4. Fatigue
5. Appetite changes and weight gain
6. Loss of interest in fun activities
7. Oversleeping
8. Tiredness and low energy

After reading this list, do any of these symptoms resonate with you?  If yes, support is right here. It’s normal to feel down and out sometimes, but if you’re having these feelings too intensely and frequently it might mean that you’re experiencing “SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder).”

If you do feel like you identify with any of these symptoms of seasonal affective disorder, just remember you are not alone and Repiphany is here to support you.  As a counsellor I provide a safe space in which we can be able to explore these symptoms of SAD together at your own pace.

By doing this, you will be better able and adept at understanding how to navigate these symptoms and uncover strategies and methods which can enable you to lead and live a much happier healthier life, especially during these wintery months.

Learn more about how therapy can help

Call us (250-962-2415) to find out about our experienced therapists and their availability. We can then schedule a free, 20-minute introductory consultation

Resources for Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

• National Institute of Mental Health
• Mayo Clinic