Beating the winter blues: when lifestyle makes a difference

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a form of recurrent depression linked to seasonal changes, particularly in autumn and winter when daylight decreases. Symptoms include persistent fatigue, loss of energy, increased need for sleep, strong cravings for carbohydrates, weight gain, and reduced motivation or interest in daily activities. In severe cases, it may even lead to feelings of hopelessness or social withdrawal.

The primary causes include a disruption of the circadian rhythm caused by a lack of natural light, leading to dysregulation in the production of melatonin and serotonin—key hormones in mood and sleep regulation. Abnormalities in monoaminergic systems, which modulate dopamine and norepinephrine, as well as genetic predisposition, may also play a significant role in the development of SAD.