5 Things Everyone Should Know about Seasonal Depression

Seasonal affective disorder affects millions of people in America. SAD is a type of depression that usually starts and is related to the changing of seasons going into the fall and winter season. Due to the shorter days, and less sunlight, people feel less energetic, and their moods become increasingly somber. About another 10-20 percent of people will be affected with mild SAD, and females are more afflicted than males. Symptoms of SAD can begin as early as the age of 20. The Mayo Clinic outlined some of the symptoms of the depression such as over sleeping, weight changes, irritability, and a heavy feeling in the arms and legs. SAD is believed to relate more to daylight, not the temperature. "Some experts believe that a lack of sunlight increases the body’s production of a body chemical called melatonin. Melatonin is what helps regulate sleep and can cause symptoms of depression.”