Are you sad or do you have SAD?

Imagine yourself indoors, listening to a crackling fire, and a warm drink within reach - these are the hallmarks of some people's favorite season. However, for some, the changing seasons bring a different kind of shift: the onset of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
SAD is a type of depression that typically begins and ends with the Winter Solstice. While many people experience a dip in mood during the shorter, darker days of winter, SAD goes beyond the "winter blues".
It is crucial to understand that SAD is more than feeling down. Key symptoms include; persistent low mood (lingering for weeks or months), loss of interest in pleasurable activities, change in sleep (oversleeping or insomnia), appetite shifts, low energy, difficulty concentrating, social withdrawal, and increased feelings of restlessness and tension. Some possible explanations for SAD include: reduced sunlight, which interrupts the body's natural circadian rhythm and affects the production of serotonin (which plays a vital role in mood regulation), and melatonin imbalance (a hormone that regulates sleep).
Coping strategies for everyone during the winter months can be a good idea to support overall health, but the following suggestions are important if you are experiencing any symptoms of SAD: Light Therapy, Mindfulness, and Relaxation Techniques, Regular exercise, a Healthy Diet, Social Connections, and Therapy provided by a licensed professional.
Remember, you are not alone! If you suspect you may be experiencing SAD, please reach out for professional help. SAD is very treatable, and your mental health is important.