Human Resources

Seasonal Affective Disorder: It’s More Than the Winter Blues

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression characterized by its recurrent seasonal pattern, with symptoms lasting about 4 to 5 months per year.

People who have SAD may start to feel “down” when the days get shorter in the fall and winter and begin to feel better in the spring, with longer daylight hours.

The first step is to determine how much your symptoms interfere with your daily life. Below are mild symptoms of SAD:

n Feeling “down” but still able to care for yourself or others.

n Having trouble sleeping.

n Feeling less energetic than usual, but still able to do your job or housework.

Do you have mild symptoms of SAD that have lasted two weeks or less? If so, try doing things that you enjoy that help you feel better. You can go outside in the sunlight, spend time with family and friends, and avoid foods with lots of sugar.

Contact your health care provider if you have the following severe symptoms of SAD (lasting more than two weeks):

n Feeling depressed most of the day, nearly every day.

n Craving foods with lots of sugar.

n Experiencing changes in weight.

n Experiencing problems with sleep.

n Feeling sluggish or agitated.

n Having low energy.

n Feeling hopeless or worthless.

n Having difficulty concentrating.

Learn more about Seasonal Affective Disorder at the NIH website at medlineplus.gov/seasonalaffectivedisorder.html.

— Compensation and Benefits,
Human Resources, 12-14-23