Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
Overview
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that usually happens in the winter. Treatments include antidepressants, talking therapies and light therapy.
Symptoms
The main symptom of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) isdepressionthat happens in the winter and goes away in the summer. Some people have depression symptoms in summer instead, but this is less common. Symptoms of seasonal affective disorder include: low mooda lack of interest in things you usually enjoyfeeling guilty, hopeless or worthlessfeeling restless or irritabledifficulty concentratingbeing more hungry and eating more than usualbeing more tired and sleeping more than usualthoughts of suicide or self-harm Some people also have a period of feeling more energetic than usual at the start of spring or summer.
Causes
It’s not known exactly what causes seasonal affective disorder (SAD), but it’s thought to be linked to reduced levels of daylight in winter. This may cause changes to brain chemicals like melatonin and serotonin that affect your mood and your sleeping patterns (circadian rhythm).
Treatment
Seasonal affective disorder can be difficult to deal with, but treatment can help manage your symptoms. Treatments for seasonal affective disorder include: antidepressantstalking therapies, such ascognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)light therapy Many people need treatment every winter to stop symptoms from coming back. Light therapy involves using a bright light, sometimes called a SAD lamp or light box, to simulate daylight in winter. It’s not usually available on the NHS as there’s not enough evidence to tell whether it’s effective. But many people find it helps their symptoms. Speak to a GP before trying light therapy. It might not be suitable if you have certain eye conditions or are taking some medicines that increase your sensitivity to light. If you buy a light box or SAD lamp, make sure it's bright enough (10,000 lux is standard), UV-free and has a UKCA or CE mark. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for using your light.
Prevention
Get natural sunlight; Exercise; Manage stress.
When to see a doctor
Support is available if you or someone you know is having a mental health crisis or emergency, no matter what you're going through. Find out where to get urgent help for mental health