As the seasons change, many people notice shifts in their mood, energy, and motivation. For some, these changes go beyond the occasional “winter blues” and develop into a form of depression known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). While many people associate SAD with long, dark winters in northern states, SAD can affect individuals in Louisiana as well, even with our milder climate and generally sunnier reputation.
Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder
Seasonal Affective Disorder is a type of depression that follows a seasonal pattern, most commonly appearing during the fall and winter months when daylight hours are shorter. Less commonly, some individuals experience SAD during the spring or summer. While the exact cause is not fully understood, reduced exposure to sunlight is believed to play a significant role by affecting the body’s internal clock, serotonin levels, and melatonin production, all of which influence mood and sleep.
SAD can impact people of all ages and backgrounds, though it is more common in adults and in regions with long winters or limited sunlight. Left untreated, symptoms can interfere with daily life, relationships, work, and overall well-being.
Common Symptoms of SAD
Symptoms are similar to those of major depression and may vary in severity. Common signs include persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness, low energy, difficulty concentrating, and a loss of interest in activities once enjoyed. People with winter-pattern SAD may also experience increased sleep, cravings for carbohydrates, weight gain, and social withdrawal. Louisiana’s frequent overcast days, rain, and humidity can also reduce overall sunlight exposure, mimicking the effects of darker winter climates.
In contrast, individuals with summer-pattern SAD may have trouble sleeping, experience anxiety or agitation, reduced appetite, and restlessness. Regardless of the season, these symptoms typically last for weeks or months and improve as the season changes.
Why SAD Is More Than the “Winter Blues”
It’s normal to feel less motivated or slightly down during darker months, but SAD is more intense and persistent. The key difference is how significantly symptoms affect daily functioning. If mood changes last most of the day, nearly every day, and interfere with responsibilities or relationships, it may be more than a temporary slump.
Recognizing this distinction is important, as SAD is a diagnosable and treatable mental health condition. Seeking professional guidance can help individuals better understand what they are experiencing and identify effective ways to manage symptoms.
Treatment and Support Options
Seasonal Affective Disorder can be treated in several ways, depending on individual needs. Common approaches include therapy, lifestyle adjustments, and, in some cases, medication. Light therapy using a specially designed light box to mimic natural sunlight is often recommended for winter-pattern SAD and has been shown to improve mood for many people.
Counseling and behavioral health services can also help individuals develop coping strategies, address negative thought patterns, and improve emotional resilience. Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, staying physically active, and prioritizing social connection may further support mental health during seasonal transitions.
When to Seek Help
If you or someone you care about notices recurring mood changes tied to seasonal shifts, it’s important to seek support. Early support can make a meaningful difference and prevent symptoms from worsening year after year.
At Teche Health, compassionate behavioral health professionals are available to help individuals across Louisiana understand seasonal mood changes and develop personalized treatment plans. Mental health support is important in every season, and help is available when you need it.
If seasonal changes are affecting your quality of life, reaching out is a meaningful first step toward feeling better—no matter where you live or what the forecast says.
