No one has a perfect day every day. But if you feel as though you are starting to have more bad days than good, then it might be time to talk to a knowledgeable and experienced physician to see if you might be experiencing the symptoms of seasonal affective disorder, also known as SAD.

Our team at AFC Urgent Care Athens TN is here to help you understand the theory behind SAD, as well as how to recognize the symptoms of the disorder.

Is Seasonal Affective Disorder a “Real” Disorder?

Yes. Seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, is recognized by the National Institutes of Health as a medical condition.

Often mistaken for a case of the “winter blues,” SAD is actually a form of depression that’s typically brought on by seasonal change. It’s most common in the late fall and winter, but can occur at any time of year.

Causes of Seasonal Affective Disorder

• Your biological clock
• Serotonin levels
• Melatonin levels

How Do You Treat SAD?

You don’t have to live with seasonal depression—and you should seek medical attention if you aren’t feeling like yourself. There are multiple treatment options your doctor may recommend trying.

This might include vitamin D supplementation, since many people are lacking vitamin D during the winter because they are spending more time indoors than outside in natural light. Light therapy and antidepressants are two other common types of treatment for SAD.

Symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder

• General discontent
• Loneliness
• Mood swings
• Sadness
• Appetite changes
• Depression
• Social isolation
• Weight gain
• Lack of concentration

Not feeling like yourself? Our team at AFC Urgent Care Athens TN is here to help!