Seasonal Affective Disorder
Morgan Brittani
Hello, My Name Is Seasonal Affective Disorder.
Seasonal Depression, or seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs with changes in the seasons. It usually will begin and end at the same time every year. Typically, symptoms start in autumn/fall and continue through to winter. SAD typically happens during the holiday season.
What happens when someone has Seasonal Depression?
1) Depressive feelings and low mood every day
2) Little or no interest in your regular activities
3) Overall tiredness
4) Changes to our circadian rhythm (internal body clock): The low level of sunlight disrupts our internal clock and leads to depressive symptoms.
5) Reduced sunlight means the levels of serotonin in our brains drop. Serotonin is a chemical that affects our mood. Low levels of sunlight can cause our serotonin levels to drop, leading to low mood and interest.
6) Melatonin Changes: the changes in seasons can cause disturbances to the levels of melatonin in our body, which is the chemical that regulates our sleep and waking cycles.
Okay, now, how do I move forward?
As with regular depression, it is important to share your feelings (at your own pace) with a trusted family member or friend as they can help form part of your support network. Journaling, pushing yourself to get your of bed every morning to complete a simple task or even meditating for a few minutes can help alleviate your symptoms of depression and make you feel accomplished.
Try to open your windows and blinds (where possible) during sunny hours of the day to help your internal clock and overall mood. If you can, go outside for a walk. Even if its slightly cloudy, outdoor light in any form have been shown to help symptoms of seasonal depression. When you’re at home, try to spend some of your time during the sunniest areas of your house.
Seasonal Affective Disorder Affirmation:
I am light and warm. I am more than my current struggles, and they too will pass.
Source: Harvard, Help Guide; Researcher: Devmi Epaarachchi