Seasonal Affective Disorder ( S.A.D)
Seasonal Affective Disorder month is in December. It is a condition that causes significant mood changes in response to the changing seasons, typically during late fall and winter.
On the NHS website it lists the symptoms as
- a persistent low mood
- a loss of pleasure or interest in normal everyday activities
- feeling irritable
- feelings of despair, guilt and worthlessness
- low self-esteem
- tearfulness
- feeling stressed or anxious
- a reduced sex drive
- becoming less sociable
SAD is thought to be related to changes in light exposure which can affect the body’s internal clock and the serotonin and melatonin levels.
Serotonin is a brain chemical that affects mood, appetite and sleep. Lower levels are linked to depression. Melatonin helps regulate sleep-wake cycles and circadian rhythms. Treatment can include psychotherapy and medications.
