According to the Cleveland Clinic, seasonal depression is also called seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and occurs each year at the same time, usually in the fall or winter and ending in spring or early summer. Other common terms for seasonal depression include the winter blues or cabin fever, but the Cleveland Clinic insists that the mood disorder is much more than that. Symptoms of seasonal depression are similar to other forms of depression and are usually receptive to psychotherapy or medication therapy when needed.
Common Depression Signs
The Cleveland Clinic points out that many of the common signs of depression are present with seasonal depression (SAD). These include sadness, anxiety, irritability, reduced interest in routine activities, becoming withdrawn from social settings and trouble concentrating.
Winter SAD
In addition to the common depression symptoms, winter depression can cause other unique side effects. The Cleveland Clinic points out that individuals with SAD may experience fatigue, increased need for sleep, reduced energy levels, weight gain, appetite increase, trouble concentrating and an increased desire to be alone. Other symptoms, as indicated by the Mayo Clinic, include hopelessness, oversleeping, craving carbohydrates or trouble processing information.
Summer SAD
Summer seasonal depression can share symptoms with winter SAD, but some individuals may experience an increase in energy, weight loss, trouble sleeping and a decreased appetite. According to the Mayo Clinic, individuals with summer SAD may notice an increase in libido, agitation, irritability and anxiety when compared to other forms of depression. In some cases, spring or summer depression can bring about symptoms of mania, according to the Mayo Clinic. They describe symptoms of this including elevated mood, rapid thoughts and rapid speech.
