Falling leaves provide harbinger of possibly SAD days ahead
We may be plummeting into the winter months ahead, but there is still a lot to look forward to. There is beauty in the frost garlanding trees, the Winter Olympics, and holidays spent with family and friends. For many, the winter months are a time of joy. For others, however, the cold weather and lack of sunshine presents challenges.
Seasonal affective disorder, more commonly known as seasonal depression, is a psychological disorder characterized by depressive symptoms that usually begin during the cold season and last until early spring. Typical symptoms of depression include feelings of sadness or apathy, decreased energy, sleep problems, and disruptions in concentration and memory, among others. Furthermore, there are no key genes or environmental factors that are linked to the formation of the disorder, so it is difficult to pinpoint where it actually stems from.
The seasonal variation of depression may not have clearly defined origins, but environmental factors can be observed in those with seasonal depression. It is generally believed that the lack of sunlight and therefore vitamin D in winter typically plays an important role in the development of the disorder. Moreover, the lack of sunlight can lead to increases in melatonin production. As summarized in an article by PubMed Central, “melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland that responds to darkness by causing sleepiness. As winter days become darker, melatonin production increases and, in response, those with SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) feel sleepy and lethargic.” Melatonin is produced in response to darkness, and controls sleep cycles and circadian rhythms. For these reasons, the lack of light brought on by the winter season can lead to hypersomnia, or excessive sleepiness.
What other winter environmental factors can lead to the onset of SAD? Cold temperatures in general can cause the body to exhibit evolutionary hibernation behaviors. This can work in tandem with the low serotonin levels, causing those with SAD to eat and sleep more.
To make a long story short, SAD has no defined origin but is strongly associated with the environmental conditions that come with winter. For this reason, it also has no definitive cure. Every person with SAD is different, therefore needs to be treated differently. This being said, there are many different means of treatment for SAD. Common treatments for the disorder include increased light exposure and antidepressants, or a combination of both or more.
It is especially important for teenagers to be mindful of SAD, since they are more susceptible to developing mental health issues than any other age bracket. Along with that, Wisconsin is on the low end of sunlight in the winter months, meaning that the rates of SAD are higher than most places. The key to combating this is offering support to peers who may be suffering, and knowing what to do if you ever find yourself experiencing symptoms of depression around the winter season.
by Sophie Fletcher
Published November 4th, 2024
Oshkosh West Index Volume 121 Issue II