What is Seasonal Affective Disorder?

Have you ever noticed a difference in your mood during the fall and winter? Well, you’re not alone. There is a direct correlation between increased anxiety/depression and colder months. There is also a direct correlation between increased aggression and irritability in the warmer months. This phenomenon is known as seasonal affective disorder.

Seasonal affective disorder, also known as seasonal depression, is a type of depression that begins and ends around the same time of the year. This is likely caused by factors such as: decreased exposure to sunlight, decreased amount of socialization, colder temperatures, etc. People who have bipolar disorder also have a higher chance of developing seasonal affective disorder.

Symptoms of seasonal affective disorder include:
In the colder months:
Oversleeping and lower amounts of energy
Increased appetite, and weight gain
Decrease in interest
Suicidal thoughts
In the warmer months:
Irritability
Increased aggression
Weight loss
Insomnia

Seasonal affective disorder is able to be managed. By doing these activities, you can minimize the effects of seasonal affective disorder:
Psychotherapy
Light therapy
Mindfulness
Exercise
Eating a well-balanced diet
Socialization