Depression is one of the most prevalent mental disorders experienced in many societies globally. It presents itself in the form of persistent sadness, lack of enthusiasm for activities, and in numerous other ways, both emotional and physical. It can impact us at any time. There is also a separate condition that has some similarities. It is referred to as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), and it tends to occur most during certain seasons.
SAD is not just the winter blues, but a serious disorder that needs immediate care.
It is a chronic illness that affects the lives of patients through mood swings and changes in energy levels.
This article focuses on the differences between SAD and depression. Understanding the differences can help us all to better support ourselves or others who may struggle, especially this time of year.
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Key Differences between SAD and Depression
The key difference between seasonal affective disorder and general depression is that SAD is seasonal. Symptoms occur when daylight is scarce. General depression has no relation with seasons and can come at any time.
a. Seasonality and Symptoms
A characteristic of SAD is its significant relationship with light. For instance, winter has less daylight, and this will impact on serotonin (related to mood) in the brain. It is believed that this reduction results in SAD. Whereas it is related to seasonal light changes, general depression has many causes, such as hereditary factors and life circumstances.
b. Light Exposure
The management of SAD involves light therapy that involves using a light that simulates natural light. For general depression, the therapeutic interventions differ and may consist of drugs, psychotherapy, and modifications in lifestyle, which are not targeted at imitating sunlight.
Find More Resources to Help with SAD
Approaches for Seasonal Affective Disorder
Seasonal Affective Disorder produces such symptoms as sadness, fatigue, and decreased interest in previously enjoyable activities. However, it is frequently misunderstood as being a milder form of depression or simply experiencing low spirits during winter. In fact, it is just as disabling and should not be overlooked; if you or a loved one experiences depressive symptoms during certain times of the year, it is advisable to seek professional help.
SAD and Depression
The more we learn about seasonal affective disorder and its differences from depression, the better we comprehend how climate, including amount of light or time of year, can affect mental health. It is key to apply this knowledge not only for treatment purposes but for increasing general population awareness as well.
Looking to the future, further studies of seasonal affective disorder and its connections with other mood disorders may result in newer methods of managing the problem. This is important to advance the well-being of those suffering, gradually making for a better and more efficient mental health care system.
To learn more about the complexities of depression, read 6 Forms of Depression: How to Spot Each One.
Thank you as always for reading.
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Joan Senio is the founder of KindCompassCoach. Joan’s career includes clinical healthcare plus 20+ years as an executive in a nationwide health care system and 15 years as a consultant. The common threads throughout Joan’s personal and professional life are a commitment to non-profit organizations, mental health, compassionate coaching, professional development and servant leadership. Joan has had the privilege of mentoring early and mid-career professionals as well as current and future executives and leaders. She is a member of the International Organization of Life Coaches, serves as a thought-leader for KuelLife.com and is also a regular contributor to PsychReg and Sixty and Me. You can read more about Joan here: Joan Senio.
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