What you need to know about Seasonal Affective Disorder

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (Dakota News Now) - As daylight fades and temperatures drop, health experts say more people are beginning to feel the effects of Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, which is a form of depression triggered by seasonal changes.

“It is a little bit more severe than the winter blues,” said Sara Van’t Hul, an outpatient behavioral health manager with Avera. “The winter blues come and go, whereas seasonal affective disorder is more of a long-standing thing.”

Common symptoms include oversleeping, overeating, lack of motivation, losing interest in typical activities, and increased isolation. Providers say establishing consistent routines, staying active, and using light therapy can help boost mood during the darkest months.

“They do make seasonal affective disorder lights whe