Do you feel less motivated in the Winter? Well, there may be a reason why.

Some people in the winter experience a type of depression called winter-onset seasonal affective disorder also known as SAD. It is attributed to the declining amounts of sun in the fall and winter months causing lower serotonin and vitamin D levels. Millions of people experience seasonal-related depression every year and it affects women and children more than it does men. Individuals suffering from bipolar disorder or depression are at higher risk of developing SAD as are people who live in more northern latitudes.

Seasonal Affective Disorder can also onset during the summer months. People experience a variety of symptoms such as a lack of motivation, difficulty concentrating, trouble getting out of bed in the morning, or fatigue, as well as overpowering feelings of sadness and despair. SAD can make you feel more exhausted than usual, anxious, or even cause thoughts of suicide. Some people’s moods change a lot which can impact everyday tasks and productivity. If you suffer from SAD there is no need to lose hope, there are ways to help combat any symptoms or feelings you may face.

These tools range from things as simple as lifestyle changes to more complex actions such as seeking therapy or antidepressants. For example, light therapy uses light to mimic the sun to help make up for the decrease in sunlight and can help balance the circadian rhythm. If you don’t want to buy a potentially expensive lamp simply being outside can also help with the listed symptoms. Talking to a therapist and utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy can help with finding coping mechanisms to help combat feelings of depression or anxiety. On top of that, exercising, eating a well-balanced diet, doing things you enjoy, and talking or spending time with friends or family can all help ease symptoms you may face. If your symptoms don’t subside with the spring thaw and the longer duration of sunlight, you may be experiencing another type of depression, and you should reach out to a mental health professional. Depression while it can be serious, is a very treatable mental illness and you don’t need to suffer in silence.

Resources:

If you are feeling suicidal or need someone to talk to, here are some numbers listed to help:

Suicide Hotline: call 988 or Text 988 (available 24 hours in English and Spanish)

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration National Helpline: (800) 662-4357

Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

Trevor Project (a support line for LGBTQ+ youth): Text START to 678-678 or call 1-866-488-7386 or visit thetrevorproject.org to chat online