Volume 8: January 29, 2023
Written/Edited by: Fidha and Mana
Most people
have definitely heard the phrase “it’s just the weather changing” to describe changes in behavior. However, research shows that there is a specific disorder that affects millions across the globe, annually known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D.). This disorder is classified as a form of depression that is related to seasonal changes throughout the year.
For most, the disorder is prevalent during the transition from fall to winter, however, it may also affect some during the spring and summer months, while resolving in the winter and fall. Scientists have proposed various reasons for the prevalence of the disorder, however, there are three factors that have been well-established as key factors of increasing S.A.D., which include the circadian rhythm (the body's biological clock that is disrupted by seasonal changes), serotonin levels (which decrease due to lack of sunlight in the winter), and melatonin levels (which can causes changes in sleeping patterns. There is also the possibility of a family history of the disorder, living further away from the equator, having major depressive disorder or bipolar disorder which can be amplified through seasonal changes, and low levels of vitamin D.
Although there are certain symptoms that are universal, such as fatigue, disinterest, and hopelessness, there are changes in the symptoms based on the time of the disorder; for example, winter S.A.D. tends to lead to oversleeping and appetite or cravings, whereas summer S.A.D. tends to lead to decrease in sleep and loss of an appetite, as well as increased irritability.Furthermore, S.A.D. extends to all age groups, including teenagers, which can cause changes in not only mood, but also studying and extroversion as well.
The Effects of S.A.D.
Now that we’ve discussed the definition itself, it’s crucial to be aware of the dangerous effects associated with S.A.D. that may manifest in affected individuals. For starters, the disorder naturally causes an overall loss of jubilance and motivation: little to no interest in activities you once were passionate for, general listlessness and depression, and low energy are just a few examples of what that may mean. To get even more specific, oversleeping (otherwise known as hypersomnia) related to feelings of sluggishness and fatigue can also occur, alongside difficulty concentrating and hopelessness/worthlessness as well as guilt. Irritability, anxiety, and increasedsensitivity to rejection are another few symptoms. Regarding the most extreme effects, some may wish to end their lives.
This is a heavily stressful disorder that is to not be brushed off as nothing but the changing of the seasons, it should be taken seriously and treated in accordance. We advise against toughing it out with reasoning along the lines of “it’s going to end either way.” S.A.D. can very well be continuous, and if therapy is an option for you, take it; make the most of life and be as happy a person as you possibly can. Concerning means of controlling/treating S.A.D., the one typically considered most effective is light therapy, as it attacks said disorder at the root (a 2008 study by Sala Horowitz has proven that approximately 9x the population are affected in states where daylight hours are shorter versus those where they’re longer. Additionally, serotonin, melatonin, and Vitamin D levels are inevitably affected with less sunlight, causing emotional imbalance and a decreased production of “feel good” chemicals.)
Other means of therapy include aroma, sound, and comforting videos to stamp out loneliness on dreary grey days. Cognitive-behavioral therapy may prove effective as well. If possible, share this newsletter with your guardian(s), teachers, or any other sort of mentor; it’s crucial for them to understand how to treat children when mental disorders are exceedingly prevalent. For example, workload should be stabilized or reduced over colder days, and healthy dietary choices should be heavily encouraged. Always remember to keep warm and stay strong, we at the You Matter team care for you!
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Sources:
Mayo Clinic. (2021, December 14). Seasonal affective disorder (SAD). https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/seasonal-affective-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20364651. [1]
Dunin, D. (2021, May 26) Combating Seasonal Affective Disorder in Schools. Center for Educational Improvement (CEI). https://www.edimprovement.org/post/combating-seasonal-affective-disorder-in-schools. [2]
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