Let’s Talk About SAD

What is SAD?

Seasonal Affective Disorder is a type of depression that emerges during the darker periods of the year. While we’re still not sure what the definitive cause of SAD is, research suggests that it is dependent on a number of factors, including genetics, a lack of sunlight, and an increase in stress.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, SAD is characterized by a general “slowing down” of a person’s normal activities, increased sleep, decreased motivation, and weight gain. These issues can be compounded by the demands of being a college student, creating a vicious cycle: the decrease in energy leads to an inability to complete assignments or attend class, which creates shame and academic insecurity, which further drains energy and makes it more difficult to engage with school. The workload over the semester also tends to pile up right around the time that days begin to get shorter, thus increasing a student’s chances of experiencing SAD.
 

Why is this happening?

Seasonal mood fluctuations have been recognized as a part of life for ages, and it’s likely that SAD serves some evolutionary purpose. Researchers have suggested a shift in how we view SAD—rather than as a weakness or abnormality, an article published in the Journal of Affective Disorders proposes that the mood disturbance caused by the change of seasons is an adaptive behavior that ensured the success of our species for millenia.

A stubborn remnant of our evolutionary past, the behaviors associated with SAD (social withdrawal, energy conservation, carbohydrate cravings) were beneficial for our ancestors, who were concerned about seasonal food scarcity and its natural companion, a decrease in energy. In other words, our bodies consume excess food and conserve energy to prepare for the long, arduous winter ahead.
 

A final word from Taking Charge

Seasonal Affective Disorder may zap you of your energy and drive, but like many other ailments, it’s not entirely out of your control. Taking intentional steps to acknowledge and address it can go a long way in securing your mental health during the winter months. And try to remember that others around you are probably going through a similar thing—we’re all in this season together.
 

Learn more about Student Wellbeing. Student Wellbeing provides resources specific to college students and their wellbeing, especially around issues like stress, mental health, addiction, financial obstacles, and other barriers that prevent them from thriving at university and in life.