Seasonal Affective Disorder

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression caused by the changing of seasons. The most common type of SAD is called winter-onset depression, beginning in late fall or early winter. SAD can be related to changes in the amount of daylight during different times of the year. Half a million people in the United States may suffer from winter-onset depression. Not everyone who has SAD experiences the same symptoms. Common symptoms include change in appetite, weight gain, fatigue, oversleeping, anxiety and a loss of interest in favorite activities.