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Winter Blues or Something More?

January 21, 2025
woman walking in show with sad look on face
Photo by Mohammad Sattar

Winter Blues or Something More?

How Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) Can Affect Suicide Risk

 

Winter can be a challenging season, especially when the post-holiday excitement fades. This is especially true in northern states like Ohio, where colder temperatures and short days with limited sunlight can take a toll on our mental health. As a result, it’s not unusual to experience a seasonal slump — a noticeable dip in your mood as the long stretch of winter settles in.

However, if you notice a pattern of feeling down during certain seasons and better in others, it could be more than the “winter blues.” You could be experiencing Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

 

What is Seasonal Affective Disorder?

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs with the change of seasons, typically during the fall and winter months when daylight hours are drastically reduced.

Symptoms of SAD include:

●      Feeling moody, irritable, or sad most of the day, for days in a row

●      Low energy, fatigue, and sluggishness

●      Oversleeping; finding it harder to get out of bed in the morning

●      Increased appetite and weight gain, particularly cravings for carbohydrates

●      Difficulty concentrating

●      Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness

While the exact cause of SAD is unknown, researchers believe the lack of sunlight in the winter can disrupt the body’s internal clock (circadian rhythm), leading to an imbalance of mood-regulating chemicals like serotonin and melatonin. SAD occurs more often in women than in men, and the risk increases with age.

 

Treating SAD

Even though it’s typically temporary, Seasonal Affective Disorder isn’t something someone can just “snap out of.” However, relief can be found in the form of treatments, like: 

●      Exposure to sunlight — Spend time outdoors, sit near a window, or use a special lamp that mimics sunlight for light therapy.

●      Psychotherapy — Also called talk therapy, with a trained counselor.

●      Medication — In some cases, antidepressants may be prescribed to treat SAD.

 

Seasonal Affective Disorder and Suicide

Experiencing SAD does not necessarily mean someone is having thoughts of suicide. However, if left untreated, SAD can escalate in intensity. For people already prone to depression, these feelings can extend beyond the winter season and lead to worsening symptoms.

 If you (or someone you know) have been experiencing feelings of depression, worthlessness, or hopelessness this winter, don’t brush it off as just the winter blues. Call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 or the local crisis line at 877-695-6333 for immediate, confidential support. A trained professional is available to talk to you and answer your questions 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Seasonal changes can be difficult, especially if you’re experiencing any form of depression. No matter what, remember that you’re not alone. By recognizing the signs and seeking support early and often, you can find the brighter days ahead.

Not sure where to start? Mental Health Recovery Board serving Warren and Clinton Counties is here for you. View our suicide prevention resources to learn how we can all reach out and connect to help prevent suicide.