SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) – National Institute of Mental Health
Sunlight VS Gloom
During the winter season the diminished light affects many people, especially the aging. Lack of sunshine can produce the following effects:
A lack of sunshine can contribute to accelerated aging, primarily by hindering vitamin D production, which is crucial for bone health, immune function, and may also impact mood and cognitive function, potentially leading to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
What is SAD?
Seasonal Affective Disorder is a type of depression that comes and goes with the seasons. It typically starts in the late fall and early winter and goes away during the spring and summer.
Symptoms of SAD may include:
- Feeling depressed most of the day, nearly every day
- Losing interest in activities you once enjoyed
- Having low energy and feeling sluggish
- Sleeping too much
- Experiencing changes in appetite or weight
- Feeling hopeless or worthless
What can you do?
- Light therapy – Sitting in front of a special light box for 30 minutes each morning
- Get outside – Even on cloudy days, natural light helps
- Exercise – Physical activity boosts mood naturally
- Vitamin D supplements – Talk to your doctor
- Talk therapy – Counseling can help manage symptoms
For myself, I notice the difference when the days grow short. I feel more like staying in bed, less like doing my hobbies. Recognizing this pattern helps me fight against it.
I make a point to sit by the window. I take short walks when the sun appears. I remind myself that spring is coming.
If you feel the winter gloom settling in, you are not alone. Reach out to someone. Talk to your doctor. And remember – the light always returns.