By Sydney Holt
Staff Writer

[dropcap]A[/dropcap]s the days are getting shorter and the temperature begins to drop, it is not uncommon to start feeling a little down. A bad case of the “winter blues” could mean something much more, according to recent physiological studies.

Seasonal Affective Disorder, also known as SAD,  is a rare type of mood disorder that occurs during the same season every year. Six percent of the U.S. population suffers from SAD. A higher portion of those live in northern states which experience colder weather.

Symptoms begin during late fall and continue through the winter, according to the National Center for Biotechnology Information.

“Symptoms include feeling down, having  low energy, withdrawing from family and friends, difficulty concentrating, having changes in sleep cycles, appetite changes, and experiencing suicidal thoughts,” Dr. Robert Holt said.

SAD and other mood disorders can have drastic effects on a person’s daily life and add constant struggle.

“Mood disorders can affect a persons quality of life, relationships, academic and work performance,” licensed clinical social worker Kelly Roberts said. “Thankfully, there are many options for treatment.”

While mood disorders are common and well-known, SAD is not. Because this disorder is so unfamiliar to the majority of the population, those who suffer often do not seek help, according to the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance.

By not seeking help, people risk obtaining serious mental health issues or begin abusing substances.

“I didn’t think that a season could actually affect your mood and become a real disorder,” sophomore Joey Dunn said. “It’s probably really scary having to go through something that no one else around you goes through every year.”

On average, people who enjoy the outdoors during all seasons are less likely to be affected by SAD than those who do not, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness.

“In the winter, people like me travel to more tropical locations to surf. The vitamin D that is made in your skin through absorbing sunlight helps to combat SAD, which is why many people travel to the tropics in winter,” Earth Science teacher Jason Breiholz said. “I do at times feel like my metabolism is higher in the summer due to the absorption of sunlight, but I rarely feel sad in the winter as that’s when the best waves of the year usually are. I spend a lot of time outside regardless of the season.”

People with SAD have many options to turn to for help or guidance.

Receiving treatment is the most important step in recovery, according to Recovery.org.

“If you or a friend has symptoms of depression, it is important to talk to a professional,” Roberts said. “You can speak with your doctor, school nurse or a counselor in your area. SAD and other types of depression often look similar.”

Eight out of 10 students said that they experience the most happiness during summer and the most sadness during winter, but they would not consider self-diagnosing themselves with depression, according to a University of Rochester Medical Center report.

SAD is a serious disorder that can sometimes trigger continuous and clinical depression.

Fortunately, a number of treatments exist for SAD and seeking help will pay off in the end, according to Roberts.

“Any mood disorder, including those that are seasonal, can get worse if they are not treated,” Roberts said. “Suicidal thoughts require immediate assessment and support. I strongly urge talking to a professional if you suspect someone is suffering. Help is available and getting support makes you stronger.”

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