Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of major depression that follows a seasonal pattern, typically worsening in winter and improving in spring.

▶ LISTEN TO ORLANDO’S MORNING NEWS EXPRESS PODCAST ON WDBO

Medical experts say common symptoms include increased sleep, carbohydrate cravings, and irritability, which can often be mistaken for general winter blues.

The condition affects millions, with symptoms typically beginning in the fall and subsiding in the spring or summer, often triggered by the shift to standard time.

While winter-pattern SAD affects about 5% of U.S. adults, summer-pattern SAD is less common and presents with symptoms like insomnia and anxiety.

Diagnosis involves a thorough evaluation to rule out other conditions, and treatment options may include antidepressants or newer therapies like Spravato for those with treatment-resistant depression.

Early intervention and planning before symptoms return can significantly improve outcomes for individuals experiencing SAD.

Click here to download our free news, weather and traffic app. And click here to subscribe to our daily 3 Big Things newsletter.