Seasonal Depression - Is It Real?

September 15th, 2021

By Kelly Brogan, M.D.

Guest Writer for Wake Up World

As the temperatures drop and the winter jackets emerge, many people will be diagnosed with seasonal depression, also called seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Amazingly, as the weather changes, up to 10% of people living in northern latitudes will be categorized as depressed.[1]

But what exactly is seasonal depression? How is it different from our natural reactions to the shifting seasons?

Considered an independent disorder,[2] seasonal depression is a label given to people who report feeling sluggish, having difficulty concentrating, craving carbs, and withdrawing from social activities (aptly called “hibernating”).[3] Risk factors for seasonal depression include living far from the equator, having a history of depression, and being female (thanks, scientists), as women are four times more likely to be diagnosed with seasonal depression than men – and then put on antidepressants to mask these symptoms.

But what if these “symptoms” of seasonal depression are simply messages? Why is it a disease to feel a meaningful shift when winter comes?

Modern living fails to recognize the cyclical nature of life that was celebrated for centuries by our tribal ancestors. In our 3G-enabled state of constant distractions and accessibility, we’re expected to always be on. We ask ourselves to exhibit the same level of energy and productivity whether it’s summer or winter, and we wonder why it’s tough to conjure up motivation when the sun sets early. This expectation of constant high-functioning is a masculine energy that can lead to burnout. And when we don’t feel like maintaining our zillions of commitments or feel overwhelmed by everyone’s perfect online lives, we’re at a high risk of being diagnosed with depression.

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• Is Your Prescription Drug Causing Your Depression?
• Contraception Depression: Can the Pill Affect Your Mood?
• A Time for Rain: Teaching Our Children About Sadness
• Psychobiotics: Bacteria for Your Brain?
• Vitamin B12 Deficiency: A Trigger for Depression and Anxiety?
• The Violence-Inducing Effects of Psychiatric Medication
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