SAD is a disorder just like it sounds, symptoms occur due to season changes which include less sunlight and colder climates. SAD is very common and occurs in approximately 3 million cases per year in the United States. Below are some symptoms that are consistent with SAD:

• Fatigue
• Depression
• Hopelessness
• Social withdrawal
• Changes in appetite or weight
• Irritability
• Poor concentration

If these symptoms sound familiar, below are a few ideas that may help:

• Get as much natural sunlight as possible
• Stick to a regular daily and sleep routine
• Manage stress levels
• Avoid drugs and alcohol
• Exercise
• Schedule times to hang out with friends often
• Purchase a special lamp called a light box that mimics sunlight
• Talk to someone
• See a therapist
• Talk to your prescriber about medications if these strategies don’t help

Seasonal Affective Disorder can be treated and you can get back to doing what you do best again!