News
Know the Signs of Seasonal Affective Disorder
December 23, 2025
When to seek help and what you can do
This article was provided by Dr. Janaka Sarathchandra, a board-certified psychiatrist treating patients in the Behavioral Health Unit at Northeastern Nevada Regional Hospital.
As the seasons change, many people notice shifts in mood, energy, and motivation. Shorter days, reduced sunlight, colder weather, and disruptions to routine can affect mental health in meaningful ways. For some individuals, these changes go beyond a temporary “winter blues” and develop into seasonal depression, clinically known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
Understanding the difference, recognizing symptoms early, and knowing when to reach out for professional support can make a significant difference in outcomes.
What Is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)?
Seasonal Affective Disorder is a subtype of major depressive disorder with a clear seasonal pattern. Most commonly, symptoms begin in the fall or winter and improve in the spring or summer, though a less common summer-pattern SAD also exists.
SAD is believed to be linked to:
- Reduced exposure to natural sunlight
- Disruptions in circadian rhythms
- Changes in melatonin and serotonin levels
- Seasonal lifestyle changes (less activity, more isolation)
While anyone can experience SAD, individuals with a history of depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, or a family history of mood disorders may be at higher risk.
Common Symptoms of Seasonal Depression
Symptoms of SAD are similar to those of major depression but occur predictably during certain times of the year. These may include:
Emotional and cognitive symptoms
- Persistent low mood or sadness
- Loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities
- Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Increased irritability or anxiety
Physical and behavioral symptoms
- Low energy or fatigue
- Sleeping more than usual (hypersomnia)
- Increased appetite, particularly cravings for carbohydrates
- Weight gain
- Social withdrawal or isolation
In more severe cases, individuals may experience thoughts of death or suicide, which require immediate professional attention.
Seasonal Blues vs. SAD: What’s the Difference?
Many people experience mild mood changes during seasonal transitions. The key distinctions are severity, duration, and functional impairment.
- Seasonal blues: Temporary, mild, manageable, and do not significantly interfere with daily functioning.
- Seasonal Affective Disorder: Persistent symptoms lasting weeks to months, causing distress and impairing work, relationships, or self-care.
If symptoms interfere with daily life or worsen over time, it is important to seek professional evaluation.
When Should You Reach Out for Help?
You should consider reaching out to a mental health professional if:
- Symptoms last more than two weeks
- You are struggling to function at work, school, or home
- You are withdrawing from others or losing interest in daily life
- You feel persistently hopeless, numb, or overwhelmed
- You experience thoughts of self-harm or suicide
Early intervention often leads to better outcomes and may prevent symptoms from becoming more severe.
If you or someone you love is experiencing suicidal thoughts, seek immediate help through emergency services or a crisis hotline.
Treatment Options for Seasonal Affective Disorder
SAD is highly treatable, and care plans are individualized based on symptom severity and patient history. Common evidence-based treatments include:
1. Light Therapy
- Daily exposure to a specialized light box that mimics natural sunlight
- Often effective within 1–2 weeks
- Most beneficial when started early in the season
2. Psychotherapy
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), including CBT specifically adapted for SAD
- Helps address negative thought patterns and behavioral withdrawal
3. Medication
- Antidepressants, particularly SSRIs or SNRIs
- Sometimes used seasonally or year-round depending on history
4. Lifestyle Interventions
- Maintaining consistent sleep and wake times
- Increasing physical activity
- Maximizing natural light exposure
- Reducing social isolation
In more severe cases, or when safety is a concern, inpatient or intensive outpatient psychiatric care may be appropriate.
Practical Strategies to Support Mental Health During Seasonal Changes
While professional care is essential for SAD, the following strategies may help support emotional well-being:
- Spend time outdoors during daylight hours when possible
- Keep living and workspaces well-lit
- Maintain regular physical activity
- Prioritize sleep hygiene
- Stay socially connected, even when motivation is low
- Limit alcohol and substances, which can worsen depression
- Plan enjoyable activities during colder months to maintain structure
These strategies are supportive but should not replace professional treatment when symptoms are significant.
You Are Not Alone — Help Is Available
Seasonal depression is common, real, and treatable. Seeking help is not a sign of weakness—it is a proactive step toward recovery and stability.
If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of seasonal depression or SAD, our psychiatric care team is here to help with compassionate, evidence-based evaluation and treatment. Early support can lead to meaningful improvement and prevent symptoms from escalating.
If you are unsure whether what you’re experiencing warrants professional help, reaching out for a consultation is always appropriate.