Did you know that less exposure to sunlight in winter can lead to symptoms of depression? Seasonal affective disorder is a type of depression triggered by the changing of seasons. As with other types of depression, SAD can have a large impact on substance use. If you suffer from SAD, you can take steps to cope without turning to substance use.
What is Seasonal Affective Disorder?
Seasonal affective disorder, also known as SAD, is a type of depression that’s typically triggered by changes in the season. A person with SAD may experience excessive fatigue, irritability, forgetfulness, low self-esteem, and a loss of interest in everyday activities. There are two main types of SAD. The first type is called “winter-onset SAD,” and it usually starts during late fall or early winter and continues through the following summer. The second type is called “summer-onset SAD,” and it follows a similar pattern as winter-onset SAD, but starts during late spring or early summer and continues through the following fall.
Some people with SAD only have mild symptoms and can manage them without medication, while others experience major depressive episodes. Doctors diagnose a person with a medically recognized seasonal affective disorder when the person shows certain symptoms of major depression for at least 2 years during a specific season. SAD can occur during the winter or summer months. Here are some symptoms:
Depressed for most of the day
Lack of interest in hobbies or socializing
Lethargy
Changes in sleep patterns, such as excessive sleeping
Changes in appetite, like craving high carb foods
Easily irritated/frustrated
Struggle to focus
Increase feelings of worthlessness
Frequent thoughts of self-harm/suicide
Weight gain
Isolating from the outside world
The Risk Factors of Seasonal Affective Disorder
There are many risk factors for developing seasonal affective disorder. These include:
Genetics. There may be genes that increase the risk of developing SAD. It often develops in people with a family history of depression.
Age. Most people with SAD develop it in their twenties or thirties.
Existing mental health disorders. People who have already been diagnosed with mental health disorders, like depression or bipolar disorder, are highly vulnerable to developing SAD.
Location. Living in regions where there are few daylight hours places a person more at risk for SAD.
Serotonin. Scientists believe this neurotransmitter plays a crucial role in our happiness and wellbeing. A lack of sunlight during the winter months can lead to a decrease in serotonin levels in the body, which could cause feelings of sadness.
Melatonin. This hormone, which influences our sleeping patterns, is produced more by the body during the darker, winter months.
The Connection Between SAD and SUDs
People with SAD often go through mood swings, making life more challenging. They felt irritable, self-conscious, frustrated, or lonely. These symptoms leave individuals very vulnerable to using substance use as a means to cope with their SAD symptoms. The National Institute of Mental Health states that there is a strong correlation between depression and substance use disorders (SUDs).
Many seek substances to attain the feeling of happiness or to numb the pain that depression makes them feel. Suffering from SAD can make the allure of substances even more prominent. However, as substance use increases, so does the amount of the substance a person needs to get the same effect. This tolerance is even more difficult when experiencing SAD. The struggle of this type of depression can take all of your energy and make you feel like you need more stimulants to get through your day.
Seasonal Affective Disorder Treatment
There are many ways to manage SAD. First, talk to your primary care physician about getting a prescription for an antidepressant. There are a few different antidepressants that can address your specific concerns. Applying a healthy diet and exercise plan can also alleviate some symptoms. Social interactions, such as joining a support group, also often improve one's mood.
According to researchers from Issues in Mental Health Nursing, having inadequate vitamin D levels increases the likelihood of depression. You can use a Vitamin D supplement or sunlight to increase your levels. One of the most effective tools to keep you on the right track toward sobriety is to find a program with a knowledgeable substance use counselor.
Finally, the most common treatment for SAD is light therapy. This therapy involves sitting near a special type of lamp that emits bright white light in order to trick the brain into thinking it’s not wintering anymore. It's a simple and effective way to treat the symptoms of seasonal affective disorder without relying on medications or invasive procedures.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that typically occurs during the winter months. SAD is more prevalent in those who live far from the equator where there are fewer hours of sunlight. While it’s not fully understood what causes this disorder, studies have shown that lower serotonin levels, high melatonin levels, family history, and age increase the risk of developing SAD. A person with SAD may experience symptoms such as fatigue, low mood, poor appetite, and weight gain. These symptoms can be debilitating for some people. If you are feeling sad and isolated during the winter months, you may be experiencing SAD. Luckily, there are treatments available that can help improve someone’s quality of life. At Monte Cristo Recovery, we know that SAD and depression can cause people to turn to substances. If you need help with detox or treatment from a substance use disorder, call today at (714) 824-9896.