Winter blues or Seasonal Affective Disorder?

During this time of year, many people report having the winter blues. In fact, they may be suffering from seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

"The onset of Seasonal Affective Disorder can occur during any season but winter onset is often referred to as the winter blues.  Symptoms usually appear during late fall and early winter and can last through spring or summer, when days are longer and brighter," says Decorah Clinic psychologist Bridgette Hensley.

Symptoms of SAD are consistent with symptoms of major depression and can last anywhere from several weeks to several months--feeling depressed most of the day, nearly every day, having low energy, feeling hopeless or worthless, losing interest in activities you once enjoyed, having problems sleeping, experiencing changes in appetite (especially craving foods high in carbohydrates) or weight, having difficulty concentrating, feeling agitated or sluggish, experiencing a heaviness in arms and legs, and having thoughts of death or suicide.  Even in the winter, it's important to get outside, exercise regularly and open blinds to let the sunlight in.

"It's normal to have days when you may feel down," says Dr. Hensley. "But if this feeling lasts more than a few days and you just can't seem to get motivated to do things you enjoy, you should see your doctor."