Knowing how to spot the signs of seasonal affective disorder can ensure you seek immediate treatment. Common winter mood symptoms include fatigue, oversleeping, and irritability.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, about 5% of American adults experience seasonal affective disorder (SAD). About 10 to 20% of Americans experience a milder form called the winter blues. However, many don't know how to recognize the signs of seasonal affective disorder.
Knowing how to spot these winter mood symptoms can ensure you seek immediate treatment. Otherwise, you may experience complications that affect your quality of life in Prescott Valley, AZ.
What are the most common senior depression indicators, and how can you improve your emotional wellness? Read on to find out!
Seasonal affective disorder is a type of depression that's related to the changing seasons.Most people first experience symptoms of winter-pattern SAD in the fall. Winter mood symptoms can worsen as the weather gets colder, when there are fewer hours of sunlight.
Unlike major depressions, SAD follows a seasonal pattern. This can make episodes more predictable, allowing you to take preventive measures. However, the criteria for diagnosing SAD are similar to those for diagnosing major depression, as are the symptoms.
According to the Mayo Clinic Health System, about one in 20 people in the northern half of the US experience symptoms of SAD. People who live far north or south of the equator, where daylight hours are shorter, are at a higher risk of SAD.
Other risk factors include:
People experience a different combination of winter mood symptoms. Common signs of seasonal affective disorder include:
Consult a mental health professional if you experience these senior depression indicators. Otherwise, your symptoms may worsen over time, leading to complications. Potential problems include:
For a mental health professional to diagnose you with SAD, you must meet the following criteria:
A few lifestyle changes may help improve your SAD symptoms. Prioritize:
Eating a plant-based diet can increase your intake of phytonutrients, which offer antioxidants and neuroprotective benefits. You can find healthy dishes through your senior living community's dining program.
Ask friends to join you for a daily walk. Their presence may uplift your mood. Walking can increase serotonin production, which may ease your SAD symptoms.
Explore your senior living community's events and activities calendar to add fun to your routine. Socializing and engaging in activities can uplift your mood. It can also reduce your risk of social isolation and loneliness, which may contribute to SAD.
The onset of seasonal affective disorder usually occurs in October. During this time, there are fewer sunlight hours, which may trigger symptoms. However, the most challenging months for people with SAD are usually January and February, during peak winter.
A lack of sunlight exposure may cause your winter mood symptoms. Sunlight helps the body produce serotonin and vitamin D. It also helps regulate melatonin levels.
Serotonin is a brain chemical linked to mood. Low levels may cause:
Sunlight exposure helps the body produce vitamin D. Vitamin D supports serotonin production. A vitamin D deficiency may cause your serotonin levels to drop, leading to SAD symptoms.
Melatonin is a chemical that helps us feel drowsy. Low sunlight exposure can cause melatonin to increase, contributing to SAD.
Common treatments for SAD include:
Light therapy (phototherapy) is often the first line of treatment for fall-onset SAD. Treatment involves sitting in front of a special light box that will expose you to bright light. The light mimics natural outdoor light.
Exposure to light after waking helps regulate your circadian rhythm. This internal clock tells the body when to get sleepy. It may help alter brain chemicals that are linked to mood.
Cognitive behavioral therapy can help you identify your winter mood symptoms. Treatment may help you:
If these signs of seasonal affective disorder sound familiar, consult a mental health professional. They can help you manage your winter mood symptoms. With help, you can improve your emotional wellness and quality of life.
Remember, you can find other helpful resources through your senior living community. Glassford Place was nationally recognized by US News & World Report as the Best Assisted Living for 2025. We offer signature lifestyle programs to help you live a comfortable, unique lifestyle while maintaining your independence.
Enjoy delicious dishes through Elevate Dining or fun activities like trivia contests and fitness challenges through Vibrant Life. Contact us now to schedule your tour.