Here’s what we’ll cover in this blog post:
- What is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)?
- Who is at risk for SAD?
- What causes SAD?
- How can we treat and limit the impact of SAD?
As we say goodbye to the warmth of summer and welcome the shorter, chillier days, it’s not uncommon to feel a bit gloomy ourselves. With over 40% of the year dominated by these colder months, it’s important to find ways to bring as much sunshine into our lives as possible—even if it’s metaphorical sunshine!
If you live further north, where winter days are shorter and sunlight is limited, you might have heard of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). It’s more common in regions with less winter sunlight, meaning people in places like New England or Alaska are more likely to experience it compared to those in sunnier states like Florida or Texas.
This lack of daylight can have a significant impact on mood and energy levels, leading to what we commonly recognize as SAD. So, what exactly is Seasonal Affective Disorder, how does it affect our longevity, and what can we do to fight it?
What Is Seasonal Affective Disorder?
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that comes and goes with the seasons, primarily during fall and winter.
With fewer sunny days and more time spent indoors, it’s easy to see how some might feel a bit more gloomy. In fact, SAD affects about 5% of adults in the US alone.
But keep in mind that having SAD doesn’t necessarily mean you’re clinically depressed, and it’s not a feeling we can simply washed away. SAD is a clinically validated mood shift that can be serious.
During winter, some people feel sluggish, low-energy, and just off. On the other hand, when the sun is shining in the spring and summer, many of those symptoms vanish, leaving people feeling lighter and more cheerful.
The symptoms of SAD largely involve our relationship with sunlight and sleep, rather than underlying psychological concerns. So, why does sunlight cause better moods, and why do we feel worse without it?
What Causes SAD?
SAD and sunlight go hand in hand. During winter months, shorter days can mean little to no sun exposure, and that messes with our bodies in a few ways.
Less sunlight can mess with our internal clocks, making us feel tired all the time thanks to an overproduction of melatonin, our sleepy-time hormone. Studies have also shown that people with SAD may have lower levels of serotonin—the brain’s natural mood booster.
As the seasons change, the shorter daylight hours can disrupt our circadian rhythm and our internal biological clocks, nudging them slightly out of line with our usual schedule, These disruptions
This can cause a variety of symptoms that are similar to depression.
What Are the Symptoms of SAD?
It’s not just about feeling a little blue. SAD can come make us feel any of the following:
- Feeling sad, anxious, or empty
- Losing interest in activities you usually love
- Feeling low-energy and fatigued
- Trouble concentrating or making decisions
- Oversleeping
Any of these symptoms can come along with SAD, or even just lack of sunlight. But just how likely are we to get these symptoms during winter? The answer may be tied to how we age.
Who’s at Risk for SAD?
Technically, anyone can experience SAD, but it’s less common in people under 20.
As we age, our risk for SAD goes up, though women experience SAD more often than men. This is especially true for older adults who workout less and stay inside more often.
However, our sleep patterns also change as we get older, which means older adults may also be more susceptible to internal biological clocks disruptions by conditions like SAD.
But that doesn’t mean we can’t do anything about SAD as we age: just as we can fight back against aging, so too can we reduce our risk of SAD.
How to Fight Back Against SAD
Even though SAD can feel like a recurring villain each winter, there are ways to keep it at bay.
- Light Therapy
Consider phototherapy—a special light that mimics sunshine! Sitting by one in the morning can boost your energy, even when the real sun isn’t shining. On the other hand, dimming our lights 1-2 hours before sleep and avoiding blue screen time can also help those who have trouble sleeping from SAD. - Stay Active & Do What You Love
It’s easy to hibernate during winter, but pushing yourself to go for a walk, meet up with friends, or pick up a hobby can make a world of difference. Try to plan some activities with friends or loved ones when the sun is out, like a group jog. - Consider Expert Help
Vitamin D, NAD+, and LDN may be your winter best friend and play a role in increasing your mood and happiness, but if you don’t know where to start, talk to you healthcare provider to see what might be right for you.
Embrace the Season and Brighten Your Days
The colder months may feel long, but summer will come back around! While we all try to make the best of these darker days, it’s also a great time to think about how our bodies adapt to seasonal changes. If you’re feeling a dip in energy or mood, it might be a sign that your body could use some extra support—whether that’s through lifestyle changes or personalized approaches to health, or even just a friend.
This is where AgelessRx’s longevity consultations come in. If you’re unsure where to start, our team can guide you through how treatments like NAD+ and LDN can help maintain your energy and wellness. Whether it’s about staying active, improving cellular health, or simply feeling more balanced during the winter months, we’re here to help you navigate the path to a healthier, more vibrant you—all year long.
Note: The above statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.