The days have grown shorter and darker. The bitter cold air blows through the bare trees and turns bright blue skies into grey ones. This is enough put a damper on anybody’s good mood.

Some may joke with their friends about having seasonal depression, and how they feel down in the dumps during the brutally cold winter months. However, seasonal depression, also known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a real thing. Unfortunately, many people deal with these unpleasant feelings as the winter goes on.

Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD for short, is a mood disorder characterized by depression that occurs at the same time every year. It usually affects people who already have depression or another mental illness. Most people experience the beginning of Seasonal Affective Disorder during the fall season, and it continues into and throughout the entirety of winter.

Symptoms of SAD vary from person to person but often include irritability, oversleeping and appetite changes. It is normal to feel down for a day or two as the seasons change. However, if these symptoms seem to persist, it could be something more and should not be pushed aside and brushed off as just “winter blues.”

Seasonal Affective Disorder is typically more prevalent in young adults, which means college kids are very likely to feel anything but in the holiday spirit. Contrary to popular belief, SAD is just as serious as any other form of depression. Additionally, similar to other forms of depression, lifestyle changes can be made to help treat it.

Changes such as exercising regularly, spending time outside in the sunlight, creating a schedule and sticking to it, and partaking in medication can provide relief for those suffering from SAD. In addition, types of therapy including light therapy and psychotherapy can provide relief as well. Even talking to a close family member or friend can help treat SAD.

Also, a vacation to a place that is warm and tropical can provide a break from the cold and the darkness. Just a little bit of sun and sand could be a major mood booster to alleviate the gloomy feelings that come along with seasonal depression.

So, if you feel like the bitter cold weather seems to bring you down and make you feel overwhelming sadness, just remember that you are not alone. Assess your symptoms, and talk to a doctor to decide that treatment options are best for you.