What is seasonal affective disorder?
According to psychiatrist Rahul Rai Kakkar, Narayana Superspeciality Hospital (India), seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a form of depression that occurs at a specific time of the year, usually in the fall and winter months when there is less natural sunlight.
In the fall and winter, reduced sunlight can disrupt the body's internal clock and affect the production of certain neurotransmitters like serotonin and melatonin, contributing to symptoms of SAD.
According to a study published in the journal Depression Research and Treatment, women and people who live far from the equator are at the highest risk of developing SAD.
Common symptoms of SAD include:
Low Energy
Often fall asleep
irritable
Difficulty concentrating
Cravings for foods high in carbohydrates
The Difference Between Seasonal Affective Disorder and Depression
Seasonal nature: SAD is characterized by its seasonal appearance, typically occurring in the fall and winter, while depression can occur at any time of the year, says Dr. Kakkar.
Light exposure: SAD is associated with reduced exposure to sunlight, while depression is not necessarily associated with specific light conditions.
Changes in sleep and appetite: SAD is often associated with excessive sleep and increased appetite, especially for carbohydrate-containing foods. Depression can manifest as excessive sleep or insomnia and changes in appetite.
Timing: SAD symptoms have a predictable onset and end time, depending on the season, while depression symptoms can develop gradually and last year-round.
Prevalence: SAD is more common in areas with marked seasonal changes. Depression, on the other hand, is a global phenomenon.
