For some people, cold, gray and shorter days can be synonymous with pathological malaise.
This phenomenon is called Seasonal Affective Disorder or, as it is more commonly known, Seasonal Depression.
What is it?
Internationally known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), Seasonal Affective Disorder is a type of depression that is related to the changing seasons.
That’s why it always happens at the same time of year: it starts in the fall and lasts through the winter.
Sometimes it can also occur in spring and summer, although this is less common.
Why does it happen?
Light influences the biological clock.
When there is a drop in light, there is a drop in the production of serotonin – a neurotransmitter in the brain known as the happiness hormone, which affects mood.
The lower the serotonin, the greater the tendency towards sadness and depression.
As the nights are longer in winter, levels of melatonin (the hormone associated with sleep) increase, which translates into fatigue and lack of energy, symptoms of seasonal depression.
When it occurs at times other than autumn and winter, it is believed to have something to do with the environment in which the person lives, i.e. one with little natural light and darker.
Seasonal depression does not choose age or gender.
However, it is more common in adulthood and in women, although it is more pronounced in men.
This condition can also be developed by genetic issues.
Main symptoms
We can find Seasonal Affective Disorder in different people, but the symptoms are common in all cases (when it occurs during the fall and winter):
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Lack of energy
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Concentration problems
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Fatigue
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Big appetite
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Enormous desire to be alone
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Great need for sleep
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Weight gain
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Bad mood
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Irritability
However, when it happens in spring and summer, the symptoms are:
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Lack of appetite
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Insomnia
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Weight loss
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Decreased libido
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Anxiety
How to prevent it?
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Take walks in the fresh air
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Open your windows to let in as much natural light as possible
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Wake up earlier and get up right away so that you can enjoy more natural light
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At work, if possible, sit by the windows
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Take a 10 to 20 minute walk in the morning.
It raises your body temperature and starts the day in good shape -
Exercise, especially outdoors
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Take a winter vacation in sunnier countries
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Eat a healthy diet, including seasonal fruit and vegetables
At SEPRI, we have psychology services that will help you with your treatment and answer any questions you may have.
