As the seasons change to fall and winter, the American Psychiatric Association (APA) advises that some people may begin to suffer some symptoms of depression that can appear gradually or that come on all at once. These symptoms often dissipate when spring arrives and stay in remission through the summer months. Symptoms of depression that come during the colder months can be associated with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). This mood disorder is often attributed to the lack of light during the colder months of the year.

SAD is a diagnosable mental health disorder that may require treatment. If you regularly experience a significant, lasting, downturn of mood when the weather gets colder and daylight lessens, then you should consider consulting a psychiatrist or other health professional to discuss your symptoms.

SAD has been linked to a biochemical imbalance in the brain brought on by the shortening of daylight hours and a lack of sunlight in winter. The most difficult months for SAD sufferers are January and February. Younger persons and women are thought to be at higher risk. There is also some evidence suggesting that the farther someone lives from the equator, the more likely they are to develop SAD.

These symptoms of SAD can include:

• excessive sleeping, difficulty staying awake, overeating, and weight gain during the fall or winter months;
• feelings of extreme fatigue, inability to maintain regular lifestyle schedule;
• depression (feelings of sadness, loss of feelings, apathy) combined with irritability;
• lack of interest in social interactions, losing interest in activities of enjoyment;
• remission of symptoms in the spring and summer months.

In a very small number of cases, annual relapse occurs in the summer instead of the fall and winter, possibly in response to high heat and humidity. During that period, the depression is more likely to be characterized by insomnia, decreased appetite, weight loss, and agitation or anxiety.

Those suffering from mild cases of SAD can benefit from additional exposure to the sun. This can include a long walk outside or arranging your home or office so that you are exposed to a window during the day. For many suffering from more severe cases of the condition, light therapy (phototherapy) has proven an effective treatment option. This form of therapy involves exposure to very bright light (usually from a special fluorescent lamp) for a few hours each day during the winter months. Additional relief has been found with psychotherapy sessions, and in some cases, prescription of antidepressants.

Getting screened and evaluated is a smart, sensible way to take care of your health and ensure that you can enjoy the pleasures of the season. Symptoms of SAD can be confused with other medical conditions, such as hypothyroidism or viral infections like mononucleosis, so a proper evaluation by a medical professional is crucial.

If you feel you are suffering from SAD, consult with your doctor about possible treatment options.