As winter approaches, the days get shorter, and the nights get longer. As a result, millions of adults experience Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a disorder that most notably affects those who live in northern regions. It's caused by the change of seasons, which creates an imbalance in your body's vitamins, chemicals and circadian rhythm. In the fall and winter months, many adults experience the winter onset caused by a lack of sunlight, which decreases Vitamin D and increases melatonin production in the body. Less commonly, some adults experience the onset of spring when the weather starts to warm up, resulting in a different list of symptoms, most of which are opposite to their winter counterparts.
Either way, Seasonal Affective Disorder affects countless people. As we enter this next season, it's vital that you learn to recognize the signs of SAD, whether that be in yourself or those around you. Once identified, Schneck Medical Center has the resources to help manage this disorder.
Seasonal Affective Disorder comes in many forms. This disorder is a type of depression, so looking out for any depression-like symptoms is a good place to start. Below is a list of key signs comparing winter and spring onset:
Winter Onset | Spring Onset |
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Signs of Seasonal Affective Disorder can also include decreased sex drive, trouble focusing, and headaches. All of these symptoms can have a severe impact on your life. But it doesn't have to affect you forever. Staff at Schneck Medical Center can help you find the right treatment for your symptoms.
There are several ways you can address this disorder. You can contact Schneck Medical Center, as we offer resources to help you manage your symptoms. However, you can also try various remedies to handle them on your own.
With any depressive disorder, regular exercise and a healthy diet are simple ways you can keep your symptoms in check. Research shows that a healthy lifestyle creates a healthy mind, thus combatting depression symptoms.
Since SAD is caused by a lack of Vitamin D, taking supplements throughout the winter months is another way to counter your symptoms. You don't need a prescription for vitamins; you can get them over-the-counter at most grocery stores, pharmacies and shopping centers.
Any exposure you can get to light is also extremely beneficial. We understand it's hard to go outside when it's below freezing in the winter, but even sitting near a window during the day can create impactful results. If you're unable to do that, light therapy is another good resource; just make sure to check with your doctor about what treatment they think is best.
Our team at Schneck Mental Health & Wellness is also a great resource, and we encourage you to contact our providers. We have a team of Mental Health staff who are board-certified and licensed to help you. We offer a variety of treatment and counseling methods to help you manage your symptoms and regain control. In some cases, antidepressants might be included in your treatment plan.
Seasonal Affective Disorder does not need to control you, nor should it scare you. Through being honest with yourself and your provider, you can mitigate a lot of the symptoms. If you know that SAD is something you experience every year, it can be easier to predict your symptoms before they start, which should make treatment more streamlined. In any way the team at Schneck is here to support you however your treatment style may look. We want you to remember that help is available; don't hesitate to reach out if you are struggling.
Schneck Mental Health & Wellness provides resources to help you live a happier, more fulfilling life. We have responsive, effective care that can treat a variety of mental health conditions. Addressing your mental health is a journey and one that we do not take lightly. No one should feel alone as they navigate this, which is why we're here to help. Please contact us if you're considering treatment or just want someone to talk to.
