Health and Wellness

El Paso County Public Health

Does Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) affect you?

By Dr. Paul Mayer, co-medical director of El Paso County Public Health

Every December marks the conclusion of another annual cycle, which appears to go faster and faster. While life has moments of joy and contentment during the winter months, as days grow shorter, many of your friends, family or neighbors could be affected by Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD.

SAD is a type of depression that is related to the change of seasons. The reduction in sun exposure this time of year can cause a disturbance in your circadian rhythm (your body’s internal clock), a decrease in your levels of serotonin (a hormone that affects your mood) and disrupt your balance of melatonin (a hormone that affects your sleep patterns and mood). These changes can lead to feelings of depression.

According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, about 4% to 6% of people in the United States suffer from SAD, and as many as 20% may experience a mild form of it. People who are more susceptible to SAD include women, young adults, individuals living in the northern regions of the U.S., people with a family history of SAD or other forms of depression and people with a diagnosis of depression or bipolar disorder.

In recognition of Seasonal Depression Awareness Month throughout the month of December, El Paso County Public Health is providing a list of 10 different ways you can promote mental wellness for you and your family.

How do I know if seasonal depression is affecting me?

Common signs and symptoms of seasonal depression include the following:

• Feeling sad or down most of the day, nearly every day

• Losing interest in activities you once enjoyed

• Lacking energy or enthusiasm

• Having low energy and feeling sluggish

• Oversleeping

• Appetite changes, especially a craving for foods high in carbohydrates

• Overeating and weight gain

• Having difficulty concentrating or paying attention

• Feeling hopeless, worthless or guilty

• Having thoughts of not wanting to live

When should I contact my doctor?

It’s normal to have some days when you feel down. But if you feel down for days at a time and don’t have the motivation to do activities you normally enjoy, see your healthcare provider. This is especially important if your sleep patterns and appetite have changed, you turn to substances such as alcohol for comfort or relaxation or you feel hopeless or think about suicide.

If you or a loved one is in mental crisis, reach out to the Colorado Crisis Services Hotline at

• 1-844-493-TALK (8255) or text “TALK” to 38255

• Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: 988

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