Seasonal Affective Disorder is a type of depression that follows a seasonal pattern, most commonly occurring in winter months when daylight is reduced. Less frequently, some individuals experience SAD in the spring or summer.
Key Points:
- Symptoms: Low mood, lethargy, increased sleep, weight gain or craving for carbohydrates, social withdrawal.
- Biological Factors: Possibly linked to disruptions in circadian rhythms and serotonin/melatonin levels due to reduced sunlight.
- Treatment: Light therapy (phototherapy), vitamin D supplementation if deficient, psychotherapy (e.g., CBT), and in some cases, antidepressants.
- Prevention Tips: Increasing exposure to natural sunlight, regular exercise, and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule.
