Seasonal affective disorder (SAD), also known as seasonal emotional disorder, is a type of depression that is related to changes in seasons. In most cases, it occurs during winter months when there is reduced sunlight, but it can also happen in summer.

SAD affects about 10 million Americans every year, and it can impact your daily life significantly. In this article, we will discuss in detail the causes and symptoms of seasonal emotional disorder.

Causes of Seasonal Emotional Disorder

The exact causes of seasonal emotional disorder are not known, but some factors may contribute to its development. Below are some of the reasons for the occurrence of SAD.

Reduced Sunlight

Reduced sunlight during winter months is the primary cause of SAD. Sunlight triggers the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood, sleep, and appetite.

In the absence of sunlight, serotonin levels may drop, causing symptoms of depression. Moreover, sunlight also influences the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep. In winter months, when there is less sunlight, it can impact the body’s circadian rhythm, leading to disturbed sleep and fatigue.

Genetics

Some people are more susceptible to SAD due to their family history. Researchers believe that genes can play a role in determining a person’s vulnerability to seasonal emotional disorder.

Brain Chemical Imbalances

It is theorized that imbalances in brain chemicals such as serotonin, melatonin, and dopamine could be responsible for SAD. These chemicals regulate mood, sleep, and appetite, and any disturbance in these chemicals could lead to symptoms of depression.

Symptoms of Seasonal Emotional Disorder

The symptoms of seasonal emotional disorder can vary from person to person. However, some of the most common symptoms are as follows.

Depressed Mood

Depressed mood or feelings of sadness are the most common symptoms of SAD. This feeling can persist throughout the day and can affect your overall well-being.

Fatigue

People with SAD may experience excessive fatigue or tiredness, even after a good night’s rest. This symptom can make it difficult to carry out daily activities, and can have an impact on work or school life.

Sleep Disturbances

SAD can cause sleep disturbances such as insomnia or oversleeping. Changes in the body’s circadian rhythm due to reduced sunlight can be responsible for these symptoms.

Weight Changes

People with SAD may experience changes in appetite and weight. Cravings for carbohydrates or sugar are common, which can lead to weight gain. Conversely, some people may lose weight due to a loss of appetite.

Loss of Interest in Activities

People with SAD may lose interest in activities that they once enjoyed. They may become less social and avoid any interaction with others.

Difficulty Concentrating

SAD can make it challenging to focus on a task or concentrate on work-related activities. This may lead to a decline in work or school performance.

Physical Aches and Pains

People with SAD may experience physical aches and pains such as headaches, joint pain, or stomach problems. These symptoms are often unexplained and can become chronic.

Suicidal Thoughts

In severe cases, people with SAD may experience suicidal thoughts or engage in self-harm. If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical help immediately.

Conclusion

Seasonal emotional disorder is a type of depression that can impact the quality of life. Reduced sunlight, genetics, and brain chemical imbalances can cause this disorder.

Symptoms of SAD can vary from person to person, but common signs include depressed mood, fatigue, changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, and loss of interest in activities. If you’re experiencing symptoms of SAD, it’s important to seek medical help. There are various treatment options available such as light therapy, medication, or psychotherapy that can help you manage this disorder effectively.