We turn the clocks back in just over a week and the weather is beginning to change. That means our days will be getting shorter and darker. For many, this may mean the beginning of Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD.
SAD is a type of depression that corresponds to the change in seasons and affects many people. Symptoms can start in the fall and continue to heighten into the winter months of January and February. The decrease in light exposure makes most people feel a lack of energy or motivation to lead their normal lives.
SAD is often seen in people that already suffer from mood disorders, but they aren’t the only people that feel the effects. Dr. McEachern says about 10% of the general population is affected by the disorder to some degree, and says it’s important to maintain a balanced lifestyle to fight the winter blues. Tarrah Harvey reports.
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