12/04/2025
December is Seasonal Affective Disorder Awareness Month!
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that's related to changes in season. Usually begins and ends around the same times every year. Most people with SAD, symptoms start in the fall and continue through the winter months. Symptoms often resolve during the spring and summer months.
Signs and symptoms may include feeling sad or down most of the day, nearly every day, losing interest in activities, low energy/feeling sluggish, sleeping too much, difficulty concentrating, feeling hopeless, worthless, or guilty, appetite changes, weight gain, having thoughts of not wanting to live.
While not fully understood, causes of SAD can be from changes in sunlight expsure which cause decreased production of serotonin, increased production of melatonin, and disruptions in the body's natural sleep-wake cycle.
Diagnosis and treatment of SAD can include physical exam with medical provider, ruling out of other possible causes of depression, antidepressant medications, light therapy, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes (exercise, healthy diet, getting enough sleep).
If you are experiencing symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder, you are NOT alone! Please reach out to make an appointment with Cortney!!
If you are experiencing thoughts of harming yourself, having mental health or substance use crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress, please CALL or TEXT 988. Or contact The Maine Crisis Line 1-888-568-1112. Each have trained crisis counselors who can help people experiencing mental health-related distress. Available 24/7!
