Symptoms - Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression triggered (caused) by changes of season.

The symptoms of SAD are like those of normal depression but they happen at a particular time of year. They usually start in the autumn or winter and improve in the spring.

Summer depression is rare and begins in late spring and stays over the summer.

Some people may only have mild symptoms. For others, the symptoms can be severe and have a big impact on day-to-day life.

Signs of depression

Most people with SAD feel depressed during the autumn and winter.

You may have SAD if you:

• have a persistent low mood
• have a loss of pleasure or interest in normal everyday activities
• feel irritable
• have feelings of despair, guilt and worthlessness
• have suicidal thoughts
• have low self-esteem
• feel tearful
• feel stressed or anxious
• have a reduced sex drive
• become less sociable

Symptoms that change with the season can also be a symptom of bipolar disorder.

Other symptoms

You may have SAD if you:

• are less active than normal
• feel lethargic (lacking in energy) and sleepy during the day
• sleep for longer than normal and find it hard to get up in the morning
• find it difficult to concentrate
• have an increased appetite

These symptoms may make everyday activities increasingly difficult.

When to talk to a GP

Talk to your GP if you think you might have SAD and you're finding it difficult to cope.

Some conditions can cause symptoms of SAD, for example an underactive thyroid. To rule out other conditions your GP may do a urine test or blood test.

There are no physical tests for SAD. Your GP will try to find out if you have SAD by asking you questions. They will ask about your health and how it is affecting you mentally and physically.

They'll also ask about:

• your medical history
• previous mental health difficulties
• your home environment and lifestyle
• recent triggers such as stressful events
• if you've had thoughts of suicide or self-harm

They may also ask about any seasonal changes in your thoughts and behaviour.

Try to be open and honest with your answers. Describe how your symptoms are affecting you.