We’re sure the hot (or rather, cold) topic of conversation right now is the recent snowfall. As we get ready for another winter season, one unwelcome side effect that is sure to reappear is seasonal depression. 

Seasonal depression, or Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), can be an unfortunate byproduct of cold, winter months. According to Cleveland Clinic, SAD affects over 5% of Americans, with 10-20% experiencing milder forms. Whether you’ve been diagnosed with SAD in the past or not, it’s important to understand what causes the disorder and how it can affect our health, as changing seasonal elements affect us all in some form or another. 

Similar to common depression symptoms, individuals who suffer from seasonal depression or SAD can experience feelings of deep sadness, anxiety, lack of energy, difficulty with concentration, problems with sleep (both insomnia or oversleeping), weight gain, and more. But how can a season affect us so greatly?

While there is still much research to be done on the topic, experts believe the following factors may cause SAD:

Less Sunlight

As days grow shorter, our internal clocks – which regular our mood, sleep and hormone-production – shift. This not only means our schedules shift without our knowledge, but also our ability to regulate hormones does as well, and hormone balance is integral to good health.

Serotonin Production

Since sunlight helps facilitate the production of serotonin – our happiness hormone – a lack of sunlight will result in lower levels and thus creates opportunity for depression.

Vitamin D Deficiency

Because we are not getting as much sunlight as we do in the summer, this also means lower levels of Vitamin D, resulting in changing mood.

Melatonin Boost

With shorter daylight hours, our bodies start overproducing melatonin, the chemical that affects our sleep. Increased levels of melatonin may cause us to feel sluggish and sleepy.

While all of these factors can have adverse effects on our health in the long term, it’s important to know that they are treatable. At Aeon Future Health, we work with our patients to gain a deep understanding of their current health in order to provide a holistic plan on how to better it. One of the key ways we can help you address seasonal depression is through an in-depth analysis of hormone imbalances. With this knowledge, we are then able to provide treatment options that may help treat seasonal depression and provide increased energy to be able to improve and maintain your overall health. 

Give us a call to get started today.

Source: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9293-seasonal-depression