When the Seasons Change: Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder

As the seasons change, you may notice changes in more than the weather. Your energy, sleep, motivation, mood, and daily routines can shift too.

For some people, these changes are temporary and manageable. For others, they may be connected to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

What Is Seasonal Affective Disorder?

Seasonal Affective Disorder is a type of depression that follows a recurring seasonal pattern. It most commonly begins during the fall or winter months and improves during the spring or summer, although some people experience the opposite pattern.

SAD is more than simply disliking cold weather or feeling disappointed that summer is over. Symptoms can affect your ability to function at work, maintain relationships, complete everyday responsibilities, or engage in activities you normally enjoy.

What Can SAD Look Like?

Seasonal depression does not necessarily look the same for everyone. You might notice:

● Sleeping more but still feeling tired

● Having difficulty getting out of bed in the morning

● Feeling less motivated to exercise, socialize, or leave the house

● Losing interest in activities you typically enjoy

● Difficulty concentrating or completing tasks

● Feeling sad, irritable, hopeless, or emotionally withdrawn

● Changes in appetite or eating habits

● Feeling like everyday responsibilities require significantly more effort

For example, someone who usually enjoys meeting friends after work may begin declining invitations because getting dressed and leaving the house feels exhausting. Someone else may notice that once it gets dark earlier, they mentally feel like their day is “over” at 5 p.m., making evening tasks increasingly difficult.

Preparing for the Seasonal Shift

You don't have to wait until you're struggling to start supporting yourself.

Think about what typically changes for you during fall and winter. You may need to become more intentional about getting outside during daylight hours, maintaining movement, staying socially connected, protecting your sleep routine, and scheduling activities that give you something to look forward to.

It can also help to recognize that your routine may need to change with the season. What worked for you during long summer days may not work as well when daylight, weather, energy, and schedules shift.

Most importantly, pay attention to your patterns. If you notice significant or recurring changes in your mood or functioning as the seasons change, consider discussing them with a mental health or medical professional.

The goal isn't to force yourself to feel the same in every season. It's to understand what changes—and prepare to support yourself through it.

If you are looking for seasonal or general mental health support you can email us at: info@ashleypetersoncounseling.com

Ashley Peterson, LPC, ADHD-CCSP