Summary: As daylight fades, many experience fatigue or low mood—but for millions, these symptoms signal seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a serious form of depression. Reduced sunlight disrupts serotonin, melatonin, and the body’s circadian rhythm, leading to feelings of hopelessness, loss of interest, and sleep or appetite changes.
Experts warn that SAD can mirror major depressive disorder and is most common in winter months, especially in northern regions. Treatments such as light therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and regular exercise can help rebalance mood and restore energy.
Key Facts
- Sunlight and Mood: Reduced daylight alters serotonin, melatonin, and sleep-wake cycles, triggering depressive symptoms.
- Recognizable Pattern: Symptoms typically begin in fall, peak in winter, and lift by spring.
- Effective Treatments: Light therapy, medication, and CBT can improve symptoms; starting early in the season helps prevention.
Source: West Virginia University
As the days get shorter, don’t just brush off the winter blues.
A West Virginia University clinical psychologist cautions seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, is a type of depression that affects millions of Americans and should be taken seriously.
Stephanie Cox, professor in the Department of Behavioral Medicine and Psychiatry, part of the WVU Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute at the WVU School of Medicine, is available to discuss how to identify the causes and symptoms of SAD, as well as treatments that can provide relief.
Quotes:
“Seasonal affective disorder occurs at certain times of the year, most often during the winter and especially in northern latitudes. Symptoms are thought to be related to reduced exposure to natural sunlight. This decrease in light can affect neurotransmitters in the brain, such as melatonin and serotonin, and disrupt the body’s circadian rhythm.
“Many people feel a bit lower in mood or energy when days are shorter. SAD, however, involves a cluster of symptoms that persist and significantly interfere with daily life.
“People with SAD may experience increased or disrupted sleep, loss of interest in activities, difficulty concentrating, feelings of hopelessness, and changes in appetite or food cravings.
“Because SAD is considered a type of depressive disorder, its symptoms can be very similar and sometimes identical to major depressive disorder. The risk is higher among younger people, women, those with a family history of SAD, and people with existing mood or mental health conditions.
“In winter-pattern SAD, symptoms usually begin in the fall, last throughout the winter months, and improve with the arrival of spring and longer daylight hours.
“People who have experienced this predictable pattern may benefit from starting treatment or preventive strategies early in the fall. Talking with a health care provider can help identify the best treatment options and timing for your specific situation.
“Light therapy is one of the most common and effective treatments. This involves sitting in front of a special light box that emits 10,000 lux of white light for 30 to 60 minutes daily during the winter.
“Other helpful treatments may include medication, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and lifestyle changes such as exercise and maintaining a regular sleep schedule.” — Stephanie Cox, professor of bariatric psychology and eating disorders, Department of Behavioral Medicine and Psychiatry, WVU School of Medicine and WVU Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute
Key Questions Answered:
A: A drop in natural sunlight disrupts brain chemicals and circadian rhythms, affecting mood and energy.
A: SAD causes persistent symptoms—fatigue, hopelessness, sleep and appetite changes—that interfere with daily life.
A: Light therapy, medication, counseling, and maintaining a steady routine can all help rebalance mood.
About this SAD and mental health research news
Author: Linda Skidmore
Source: West Virginia University
Contact: Linda Skidmore – West Virginia University
Image: The image is credited to Neuroscience News
