Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression taking place around the same time each year, usually the fall and winter. It is not a major depressive disorder but may be a sign of it. If you already have major depressive disorder, your symptoms are likely to worsen during the fall and winter months.

According to mentalhealthamerica.net, there are two main causes of SAD. One is reduced levels of sunlight, which affects serotonin (a neurotransmitter that affects a person’s mood). Another is an increased level of melatonin, a sleep-related hormone, during colder months. Since the amount of sunlight is reduced, melatonin levels boost and therefore affects an individual’s circadian rhythm. Potential consequences for this change include symptoms associated with seasonal depression.

Symptoms of seasonal affective disorder include depression (hopelessness, self-esteem issues, sadness), anxiety, mood changes, sleep problems, lethargy, overeating, social problems, and sexual problems.

If you or someone you know feels this way around this time of year, you’re not alone. According to mentalhealthamerica.net, about 5% of the United States population experiences seasonal depression. Additionally, four out of five people who have SAD are women, most within the range of 20-30 years old.

Treatments for SAD include light therapy, cognitive therapy, and antidepressants. It is important to talk to your doctor about the best treatment option for you as soon as you notice signs of SAD.

Mental health awareness is something I’m very passionate about advocating for. The more people talk about mental illness, the less “wrong” people will feel about coming forward for treatment. I have been suffering from depression for over five years, and I hope to inspire others to normalize talking about subjects such as SAD. Mental illness is not a negative term and is definitely nothing to be ashamed of.

If you are in crisis, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741741.