Winter blues: what if lifestyle were the key?

 By Ana Espino | Published on December 19, 2025 | 3 min read


Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a recurrent form of depression, primarily triggered by reduced daylight in autumn and winter. It affects mood, sleep, energy, appetite, and social functioning. Although often considered mild, it can have a substantial impact on quality of life, particularly in northern regions or among at-risk individuals. Conventional treatments such as light therapy, antidepressants, or psychotherapy have limitations, including cost, accessibility, tolerability issues, low adherence, or variable effectiveness. Moreover, SAD remains underdiagnosed and undertreated, especially in primary care settings.