SAD But True

Do you ever feel down for no reason? Or have an unknown case of the winter blues? While it seems random, a branch of this common feeling actually qualifies as a real medical condition known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

SAD is a form of depression connected to the changes in seasons, mainly in autumn and winter. When the Earth tilts away from the sun in November, our bodies receive less Vitamin D from the sun’s ultraviolet rays which can result in issues with serotonin (a chemical in the brain that helps control emotion), causing moodiness and a lack of energy.

A few students at WOHS shared their own moody experiences with the weather and SAD. Junior Gabby Petrucelli said that “If it’s sunny out, I’m gonna be happy, and if it’s raining, I’m gonna be sad.”

Other students experienced unpleasantness when the temperature drops. “When it’s raining, I feel more tired,” said junior Henri Wata.

“If it’s freezing out, I’ll be very mad, but if it’s autumn weather, I’m in a better mood,” said junior Isabelle Bise.

In the United States about 3 million cases of SAD are diagnosed every year, most of which occur between ages 15-55. Treatments for SAD include light therapy/phototherapy (the most efficient), psychotherapy and medications. If you feel SAD during this time of year, you are not alone and should try finding activities that make you happy in every season.