Seasonal Affective Disorder: Shedding Light On The Dark Days That Cause The Winter Blues

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs during in winter. With over 10 million cases in India, SAD is marked by persistent low mood.

A gloomy man looks out of a window on a winter day (AI image for representative use).

Source : ABPLIVE AI

Are the dark and cloudy days in Delhi, Noida, Shimla, and several other places in India getting you down? Do you feel a bout of gloomy 'nothingness' within you as you look at the weather outside which makes you "depressed" and sad? It is indeed SAD, or 'Seasonal Affective Disorder'. 

The cloudy and cold days might instil a sense of romanticism in some, who prefer spending the day indoors with their loved ones, sipping a cup of hot coffee or soup and chatting for hours. Some of us are just romantically attached to our blankets and pillows and prefer sleeping out the dark cold days of winter (Talk about being Kumbhakarna!).

However, some of us are just 'sunny day people' who may like the cold season but prefer bathing in the winter sun while peeling off oranges and chewing on the sweet ecstasy. We may be able to bear the winter chill, but the dark and cold weather bears down on us and reminds us of the dementors in Harry Potter.

As the days grow shorter and the temperature drops, many of us feel a little more sluggish and a lot less cheerful. Enter Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) — a type of depression that strikes in sync with the changing seasons, primarily during the winter months. With over 10 million people in India reportedly affected by this condition, it's time to shed some light on its symptoms, causes, and prevention strategies.

What Is Seasonal Affective Disorder?

SAD is often referred to as "winter depression" due to its tendency to manifest when daylight hours are at their shortest. While most individuals experience symptoms starting in the fall and continuing into winter, some may face a rare form of SAD that peaks during spring and summer. The symptoms of SAD can significantly impact daily life, making it crucial to recognise them early.

Jatin Tarwani, consultant psychiatrist at Fortis Healthcare, told ABP Live: "It is a disorder. People feel low to such a level that it becomes a disorder." He sought to differentiate SAD from other conditions as the disorder persisting for many days or weeks together. "People are unable to enjoy life. Even things they used to enjoy earlier, don't give them any joy once afflicted."

Symptoms Of SAD

The symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder can vary from person to person but typically include persistent low mood, which is characterised by a general feeling of sadness or hopelessness. 

Other symptoms irritability, social withdrawal, cravings for carbohydrates, and fatigue, as per the National Health Service, UK.

Tarwani said that a major diagnosis of SAD is the lack of confidence in the patient as s/he is affected by hopelessness and helplessness. "Sometimes the patient may even have suicidal thoughts," he said

What Causes SAD And How To Prevent It?

While the exact cause of SAD is not yet determined, several factors contribute to its onset. Among them is reduced sunlight exposure, which can disrupt the body's internal clock (Circadian rhythm) and affect mood-regulating hormones like melatonin and serotonin.

Tarwani said both pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy can help in the treatment of SAD. "The most important treatment is getting enough sunlight and avoiding darkness.

Other measures that can help are plenty of water intake, regular exercise, a healthy and balanced diet, and social engagement.