Seasonal Affective Disorder Vs. Depression: 6 differences

As it gets colder and the days get shorter, we see less sunlight and prefer to stay indoors. The change of seasons and temperatures also affect our mood and energy. Sleep problems and a persistent feeling of unhappiness are some of the symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) as well as depression. Although SAD is a recurrent major depressive disorder that has a seasonal pattern, it is not the same as clinical depression. Read on to learn the difference between seasonal affective disorder and depression.

What is Seasonal Affective Disorder?

Seasonal affective disorder is a type of depression that occurs at a certain time of the year, usually fall and winter when there is less natural sunlight, says psychiatrist Dr. Rahul Roy Kakkar.

The exact cause of SAD is not fully understood, but it is believed to be linked to a lack of sunlight exposure. Reduced sunlight disrupts the body’s internal clock (circadian rhythm) and affects the production of certain neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and melatonin, which contribute to SAD symptoms. According to a 2015 study published in the Journal of Depression Research and Treatment, women and those who live farther from the equator are the people most at risk of experiencing SAD.

Common symptoms of SAD are –

• low power
• Oversleeping
• Weight gain
• Irritation
• Difficulty concentrating
• A craving for carbohydrates

What is depression?

Depression is a mental health disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness and loss of interest or pleasure in activities, an expert told Health Shots. It affects various aspects of a person’s life, including their emotions, thoughts and physical well-being. The causes of depression are complex and involve a combination of genetic, biological, environmental and psychological factors. Here are some of them –

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• Imbalance in neurotransmitters
• Family history of depression
• Chronic medical conditions
• Significant life stressors

Symptoms of Depression –

• Constant sadness
• Fatigue
• Changes in sleep and appetite
• Feelings of worthlessness
• Difficulty concentrating
• Thoughts of death or suicide.

What are the differences between seasonal affective disorder and depression?

There are some differences between depression and seasonal affective disorder.

1. Seasonal pattern

SAD is characterized by a seasonal pattern, usually occurring in the fall and winter, while depression can occur at any time of the year, Dr. Kakkar points out.

2. Light exposure

SAD is associated with reduced sunlight exposure. Depression is not necessarily linked to specific light conditions.

3. Sleep and appetite changes

SAD often causes excessive sleepiness and increased appetite, especially for carbohydrates. Depression manifests itself in the form of excessive sleeping or insomnia and changes in appetite.

4. Commencement and Duration

SAD symptoms have a predictable onset and remission that corresponds with the seasons, while depressive symptoms develop more gradually and persist throughout the year.

5. Environmental triggers

Although both conditions are influenced by environmental factors, SAD is more closely linked to changes in seasons and light availability.

6. Diffusion

SAD is more common in areas with different seasonal changes, says the expert. Depression on the other hand is a worldwide phenomenon.

What are the treatment options?

There are effective treatment options for seasonal affective disorder and depression.

1. Seasonal Affective Disorder

Light therapy, where people are exposed to bright light that mimics natural sunlight, is a common treatment. Psychotherapy and medications like antidepressants can also be effective, the expert said.

2. Depression

Treatment options include psychotherapy (counseling or talk therapy), medication (antidepressants) and lifestyle changes. If the case is severe, doctors recommend both treatment and medication.

Although both depression and seasonal affective disorder share some common features, timing, environmental triggers, and specific manifestations differentiate them.