Seasonal Affective Disorder: Does it Affect You?

You have probably heard about Seasonal Affective Disorder, which is otherwise referred to as SAD. However, chances are that you may know the facts about this mental health disorder which affects the moods of humans. Do you have any idea who it most commonly affects and how it affects them? If so, you have come to the right place. Here, we will take a closer look at SAD and how it may affect you.

What is the Cause of SAD?

Winter days which are short, dark and cold are thought to be the main cause of SAD. SAD especially tends to affect people who move from a Southern, warmer climate to a Northern, colder climate. Other things which are thought to be the cause of SAD include an irregular amount of serotonin, or a change in the body's natural clock.

When Do The Symptoms of SAD Occur? What are They?

The symptoms which will be experienced with SAD tend to occur at different times for different people. In general, they will begin in autumn or the beginning of winter. Although some people may begin to experience their symptoms as early as in the beginning of September, others will not begin to experience symptoms until as late as December. The most common causes of SAD include anxiety, irritability, constant drowsiness, lack of concentration, sadness, and an increased appetite for carbohydrates and sweet foods which leads to weight gain. Most people will find that the symptoms that affect them by SAD will end as soon as spring arrives. This, again, is different for different people. Some people will find that they will no longer have symptoms by March while others will have their symptoms until May.

Who is Most Likely to be Affected?