Seasonal Affective Disorder Part 1: Symptoms and Causes
With Winter upon us, the shorter days and frigid temperatures can be enough to try even the most cheerful among us. Many of us feel a little less than great over cold and dark Winter months, but for some those feelings can grow into an overwhelming sense of depression known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). SAD often follows a seasonal pattern, with symptoms typically recurring in the darker months and remitting in spring or early summer, although for a small subset of those suffering from SAD, the reverse can be true, with symptoms worsening over the summer months.
In this article, we’ll explore the intricate web of symptoms and causes that define SAD, and in later articles we’ll look at how to manage this condition.
What’s the difference between SAD and other forms of depression?
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a subtype of depression that typically occurs at a specific time of year, most often during the fall and winter months when there is less natural sunlight, especially for those of us living in Canada. The symptoms of SAD are similar in many ways to other forms of depression, but some key differences help to distinguish this condition:
Seasonal Pattern: The most noticeable feature of SAD is its seasonal pattern. Symptoms usually start in the late fall or early winter, worsen over the winter, and then improve in the spring and summer. Other forms of depression, such as major depressive disorder (MDD), are not necessarily tied to a specific season, and can last year-round.
Light Sensitivity: SAD is often associated with reduced exposure to sunlight. Changes in sunlight exposure can affect circadian rhythms and neurotransmitter levels, contributing to the development of SAD. Other forms of depression may not show the same sensitivity to changes in light.
Symptom Profile: While the symptoms of SAD can be similar to those of other forms of depression (e.g., low energy, irritability, difficulty concentrating), there are specific features associated with SAD. For example, an increased appetite, especially for carbohydrates, and a resultant weight gain may be experienced by those with SAD.
Prevalence: SAD is more prevalent in countries with distinct seasons and less sunlight during winter. In contrast, other forms of depression can occur regardless of the season and may be influenced by various factors such as genetics, life events, and biochemical imbalances.
It's important to note that while SAD has these unique characteristics, the line between different forms of depression can sometimes be blurry, and individuals may experience a mix of symptoms. Additionally, SAD is recognised as a subtype of major depressive disorder, pointing to a significant overlap in the diagnostic criteria for both conditions.
Symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder
The symptoms of SAD have similarities to other forms of depression. The distinguishing factor is the close relationship with the seasons and the cyclical nature of the condition. For those suffering from SAD, these symptoms come and go with an often predictable pattern.
Depressed Mood: Central to the experience of Seasonal Affective Disorder is a persistent sense of sadness or unhappiness that can permeate all aspects of their lives.
Loss of Interest or Pleasure: An insidious symptom of SAD is the erosion of interest in activities that were once a source of joy. Hobbies and social engagements lose their luster, contributing to a pervasive sense of isolation.
Low Energy: Fatigue and lethargy become constant companions for those affected by SAD, even in the presence of sufficient sleep. Negotiating daily tasks becomes an uphill battle due to this persistent feeling of exhaustion.
Changes in Sleep Patterns: SAD can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to either insomnia or hypersomnia. Rest becomes elusive, and even an excess of sleep fails to rejuvenate.
Changes in Appetite: SAD often manifests in alterations to appetite, marked by increased cravings for carbohydrates. This shift, coupled with reduced physical activity during colder months, can contribute to weight gain. People who suffer from summer SAD may experience decreased appetite and weight loss
Difficulty Concentrating: Cognitive functions take a hit as individuals grapple with a decreased ability to concentrate. Making decisions can become arduous, impacting academic and professional pursuits and perpetuating a cycle of frustration.
Feelings of Hopelessness or Worthlessness: Negative thoughts can infiltrate the minds of individuals with SAD, creating a pervasive sense of despair and self-doubt that can be overwhelming.
Social Withdrawal: SAD often leads to social withdrawal, a retreat from activities and relationships that were once sources of comfort. Interpersonal connections fray as individuals isolate themselves, inadvertently deepening the sense of loneliness.
Irritability: Increased irritability becomes a characteristic feature of SAD, adding an emotional edge to interactions. Sensitivity to rejection is heightened, making social engagements challenging and exacerbating the strain on relationships.
Physical Symptoms: Beyond the realm of emotions, SAD can manifest in physical symptoms such as a feeling of heaviness in the arms and legs, as well as aches and pains.
Causes of Seasonal Affective Disorder
Lack of Sunlight: At the core of SAD lies a lack of exposure to natural sunlight, particularly pronounced during fall and winter. The reduction in daylight hours disrupts the body's internal clock, known as the circadian rhythm, triggering imbalances in neurotransmitters like serotonin and melatonin. It also limits our ability to produce vitamin D, which is made in our skin through exposure to bright sunlight. Vitamin D deficiency further disrupts our hormone levels.
Circadian Rhythm Disruption: Changes in daylight hours profoundly impact the body's internal clock. Disruptions to the body’s biological clock influence critical physiological processes, including sleep-wake cycles, mood regulation, and hormonal balance, creating a perfect storm for the development of SAD.
Serotonin Levels: Sunlight, or the lack thereof, plays a pivotal role in modulating serotonin levels, via vitamin D. Decreased exposure to sunlight leads to lower serotonin levels, a neurotransmitter critical for mood regulation. The resultant imbalance contributes to the onset of depressive symptoms associated with SAD.
Melatonin Levels: The ebb and flow of sunlight exposure also influence melatonin levels, a hormone intricately linked to the regulation of sleep patterns. Disruptions in melatonin production contribute to sleep disturbances, exacerbating the symptoms of SAD.
Genetics: There is a growing body of evidence supporting a genetic predisposition to SAD. Individuals with a family history of depressive disorders or SAD may be more susceptible to the condition, underscoring the interplay between genetic factors and environmental triggers.
Gender: SAD exhibits a notable gender disparity, with a higher prevalence among women. While the reasons for this discrepancy are not fully understood, hormonal fluctuations and genetic factors are thought to play a role.
Age: Age emerges as a significant factor in the manifestation of SAD. Younger adults between the ages of 18-30 are more likely to grapple with the disorder, and the risk decreases with age.
Geography: Geography casts a long shadow on the prevalence of SAD. Regions with extended winter nights and reduced sunlight become hotspots for the disorder. The geographical context, with its seasonal variations in sunlight exposure, significantly influences an individual's susceptibility to SAD.
Seasonal Affective Disorder weaves a complex tapestry of symptoms and causes, impacting the lives of those affected in profound ways. Recognizing the intricate interplay between biological, environmental, and genetic factors is crucial for both understanding the roots of this condition and effectively managing it. In the next article, we’ll explore some easy and accessible ways to help this condition.
In the meantime, here are some articles that can help.
Glimmers: Illuminating the Path to Positive Mental Health