Understanding Depression and Seasonal Affective Disorder
Depression and seasonal affective disorder (SAD) are two common conditions that affect many people each year. Learning about these conditions can help reduce stigma, support early recognition of symptoms and encourage individuals to seek appropriate care.
What Is Depression?
Depression, also called major depressive disorder, is a medical condition that affects how a person thinks, feels and functions in daily life. It involves more than temporary sadness that usually lasts six months or more and can interfere with work, relationships and overall quality of life.
What are the most common symptoms of depression:
- Persistent sadness or a sense of emptiness
- Loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable
- Changes in sleep or appetite
- Low energy or fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
- Feelings of hopelessness or guilt
Depression can develop for many reasons. Contributing factors may include genetics, brain chemistry, chronic health conditions, trauma and limited social support.
What Is Seasonal Affective Disorder?
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a form of depression that follows a seasonal pattern. Symptoms most often begin in the fall or winter when daylight decreases and improve during spring or summer.
Winter pattern SAD may include:
- Sleeping more than usual
- Increased appetite, especially cravings for carbohydrates
- Weight gain
- Social withdrawal or reduced motivation
A less common form, summer pattern SAD, may involve difficulty sleeping, reduced appetite and increased restlessness.
SAD is linked to changes in natural light exposure. Reduced sunlight can disrupt the body’s internal clock, also known as circadian rhythms and influence serotonin and melatonin production, which play key roles in regulating mood and sleep. Risk factors include living farther from the equator, being female, being a young adult and having a personal or family history of depression or bipolar disorder.
Finding Support and Treatment
Both depression and SAD are treatable. Many people experience improvement with the right combination of support and care. Treatment options may include:
- Psychotherapy, which helps individuals build coping skills and address patterns of thinking
- Medication that supports mood regulation
- Lifestyle changes such as regular physical activity, consistent sleep routines and staying socially connected
- Light therapy for SAD, which uses specially designed lamps that simulate natural sunlight
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of either depression or SAD, connecting with a primary care provider or mental health professional can be an important first step.
How do I find mental health care in Polk County, Florida?
www.PCBHR.org features a working directory of behavioral health care providers in Polk County, Florida, who offer varied approaches to addressing mental health and substance use disorders commonly collectively referred to as behavioral health conditions. If you don’t know where to start, Getting Started can guide you in choosing the right provider to meet your needs. This section also provides information on the different types of behavioral health providers and the support they may offer.
Can I still seek behavioral health care if I do not have insurance?
Seeking behavioral health treatment is still possible even if you don’t have health insurance. Many providers offer cash rates or sliding-fee scales for clients who are financially challenged or whose treatment is not covered by insurance.
If you are a Polk County, Florida, resident with little or no income and no form of health insurance or are waiting to qualify for Medicaid, the Polk HealthCare Plan may be a solution. The Polk HealthCare Plan is not insurance. The plan is funded by the voter-approved, half-cent sales surtax for indigent healthcare in Polk County, Florida, and is administered by Polk County Government. The plan offers its members access to a network of more than 1,000 medical providers, including more than 100 behavioral health providers. Behavioral healthcare is a covered benefit through the plan, with no referral necessary to see a provider.
Key Takeaways
Depression and SAD are common and treatable conditions. Recognizing symptoms early can help individuals access effective care. Support is available, and treatment can improve daily functioning and overall well-being.
Sources
American Psychiatric Association. (2023). Seasonal affective disorder (SAD). https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/depression/seasonal-affective-disorder
Melrose, S. (2015). Seasonal affective disorder: An overview of assessment and treatment approaches. Depression Research and Treatment, 2015, 1–6. https://doi.org/10.1155/2015/178564
National Institute of Mental Health. (2023). Depression. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression