Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and How It Affects Your Well-being
As the days grow shorter and darker, many people experience a noticeable shift in their mood and energy. For some, this seasonal change is more than just a case of the "winter blues." They may be dealing with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) a form of depression that occurs primarily during the colder, darker months. In this post, I explore the effects of SAD on mood, energy levels, and general well-being. I also discuss some practical strategies for managing these seasonal changes and offer suggestions for how to support yourself or a loved one who may be struggling. What is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)? SAD is a type of depression that typically begins in late autumn and lasts through winter. It’s more than just feeling a little down as the weather changes; those with SAD experience a range of symptoms that can affect their daily lives. Some common symptoms include: - Depression and low mood - Difficulty waking up and oversleeping - Low ener...