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.
Get The Best Seasonal Affective Disorder Lamp Before It Sells Out
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.
Know you need never be alone. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org to reach a 24-hour crisis center, text MHA to 741741, call 911, or go to the nearest emergency room.
If you haven’t yet subscribed, please visit KindCompassCoach and enter your email address so you never miss a post.
As Amazon Associates, we may receive a small commission (at no cost to you) for items purchased through links in this post.
Joan Senio is the founder of KindCompassCoach. Her career includes 20+ years as a private sector corporate executive and 15 years as a consultant. The common thread through her professional life has been a commitment to compassionate coaching and leadership, including mentoring early and mid-career professionals as well as current and future executives and leaders. KindCompassCoach articles are backed by research and include facts and advice from relevant experts. Joan is a member of the International Organization of Life Coaches, serves as a thought-leader for KuelLife.com and is a regular contributor to PsychReg and Sixty and Me.
Discover more from KINDCOMPASSCOACH LIFE COACHING
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
No Responses