Diseases
seasonal affective disorder
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that's related to changes in seasons — SAD begins and ends at about the same times every year. If you're like most people with SAD, your symptoms start in the fall and continue into the winter months, sapping your energy and making you feel moody.
Symptoms
- feeling listless, sad or down most of the day, nearly every day
- losing interest in activities you once enjoyed
- having low energy and feeling sluggish
- having problems with sleeping too much
- experiencing carbohydrate cravings, overeating and weight gain
Causes
- the biological clock (circadian rhythm).
- serotonin levels. a drop in serotonin, a brain chemical (neurotransmitter) that affects mood.
- melatonin levels. the change in season can disrupt the balance of the body's level of melatonin.
Risk factors
- family history.
- having major depression or bipolar disorder.
- low level of vitamin d.
Diagnosis
- blood test.
- physical exam.
- psychological evaluation.
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is seasonal affective disorder?
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that's related to changes in seasons — SAD begins and ends at about the same times every year. If you're like most people with SAD, your symptoms start in the fall and continue into the winter months, sapping your energy and making you feel moody.
What are the symptoms of seasonal affective disorder?
feeling listless, sad or down most of the day, nearly every day, losing interest in activities you once enjoyed, having low energy and feeling sluggish, having problems with sleeping too much, experiencing carbohydrate cravings, overeating and weight gain
What causes seasonal affective disorder?
the biological clock (circadian rhythm).; serotonin levels. a drop in serotonin, a brain chemical (neurotransmitter) that affects mood.; melatonin levels. the change in season can disrupt the balance of the body's level of melatonin.
Which medicines are used for seasonal affective disorder?
bupropion
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