Seasonal Affective Disorder
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a form of depression that comes and goes with the seasons. It’s more than just feeling a bit “blue” when the days get shorter—it’s when your mood, energy, focus, and motivation drop off in a recurring pattern tied to changes in daylight and seasons. For many, the symptoms begin in late autumn or early winter, last through the darker months, and then lift again in spring or summer. But there’s also a less common “summer” pattern SAD, when symptoms arise as the days grow warmer and longer.
Imagine having extra-heavy fatigue, craving more sleep, wanting to stay inside, feeling flat or disconnected, and noticing you no longer get joy from things that used to matter. That’s SAD, and because it returns around the same time each year, it can begin to shape how you live your life, from changing your schedule to avoiding social activities or staying indoors more often.
Get Scheduled with a Provider Now
Common Signs of Seasonal Affective Disorder
Some of the typical signs of SAD include:
- Persistent low mood, sadness, or feeling “down” nearly every day during a particular season
- Loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities
- Low energy, increased fatigue, or “sluggishness”
- Sleeping more than usual (in winter-pattern) or less than usual (in summer-pattern)
- Changes in appetite or weight (often increased appetite and weight gain in winter-pattern)
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
- Social withdrawal, irritability, or feelings of worthlessness
Because SAD follows a seasonal timing, you might notice the same pattern each year, fall into a slump at the same time, then feel better when spring comes.
Accepted Insurances that Cover Seasonal Affective Disorder Treatment
What Causes Seasonal Affective Disorder?
There isn’t a single cause of SAD. Instead, it’s influenced by a mix of light exposure, internal rhythm changes, biology, and environment, such as:
- Reduced daylight and sunlight exposure: Shorter days in late fall/winter reduce the light that helps regulate mood and energy. People living in states that experience darker than average winters (such as Alaska or Washington) are more susceptible to Seasonal Affective Disorder.
- Circadian rhythm disruption: Less light can throw off your internal clock (sleep-wake cycle) and lead to mood regulation issues.
- Neurotransmitter changes: Alterations in brain chemicals like serotonin and melatonin are linked to seasonal mood shifts.
- Genetics & demographic risk factors: Women, younger people, and those living far from the equator are more likely to develop SAD. Family history matters too.
- Environmental and lifestyle factors: Less time outdoors, lower vitamin D levels, more time indoors or in artificial light, all can contribute.
By recognizing these influences, you (and your provider) can tailor a plan to support your system when seasonal shifts hit.
How We Treat Season Affective Disorder at Headlight
At Headlight, we provide support that’s thoughtful, evidence-based, and tailored to your seasonal rhythm.
- Therapy: We offer approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) that are adapted to seasonal patterns—to help you build awareness of seasonal triggers and mood changes, develop behavioral strategies (e.g., activity scheduling, outdoor time), and restructure negative thoughts linked to seasonal slump. Early intervention is particularly helpful when you notice symptoms beginning each year.
- Medication Management:
- When appropriate, antidepressant medications may be recommended—especially if symptoms are moderate to severe or don’t respond to light/therapy alone.
- We coordinate with prescribers to evaluate timing (seasonal start), dosage, and monitor progress.
- Holistic & Supportive Care: We help you customise a year-round plan so you’re not just reacting, but proactively managing your seasonal rhythm. Because SAD recurs predictably, we help you build pre-season preparation: adjusting routines in early fall, planning light exposure, social activity, monitoring sleep and mood before slump sets in. One of the most effective tools for SAD is light therapy (using a bright light box) to simulate natural sunlight and reset your internal clock. Your provider might also recommend integrating lifestyle supports:
- Nutrition (balancing cravings/weight changes)
- Sleep hygiene
- Movement/exercise (Encouraging outdoor time, especially during daylight)
You don’t have to accept that your moods drop each season. At Headlight, we help you reclaim your energy, mood, and engagement—so the cycle stops controlling your calendar and you begin controlling it.
Headlight Specializes in Seasonal Affective Depression Treatment in 6 States.
Our Care
Customized Expert Care
SAD manifests uniquely in different individuals—there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. That’s why our providers work with you to create a tailored treatment plan.
Personalized Prescriptions
When medication is necessary, our clinicians determine the most manageable and effective prescription for you.
Clinically-Proven Therapy
We personalize each patient experience by matching you to the right practitioner—and the right clinically-proven therapy for your set of symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Headlight for?
Headlight is for everyone. Taking care of your mental health is a sign of strength, and choosing to better oneself is an empowering decision. We provide mental health services to those seeking a bright path forward.
What is therapy?
Therapy offers a safe and confidential space for individuals to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. During therapy sessions, your Headlight therapist will actively listen and provide guidance and insights to help you better understand yourself, your relationships, and your challenges. Talk therapy can address a variety of mental health concerns, from anxiety and depression to trauma and relationship issues. Headlight’s clinicians are experienced in various therapeutic approaches and techniques and offer in-person or virtual sessions.
What is the difference between therapy and psychiatry?
Therapy, often provided by psychologists, social workers, or counselors, involves talking through emotional and psychological challenges to gain insight and develop coping strategies. Whereas, psychiatry, typically led by medical doctors, focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of mental health issues using medication alongside therapy when necessary. While therapy emphasizes conversation and behavioral strategies, psychiatry integrates medication management to address biochemical imbalances in mental health conditions.
Why is it so important to find the right therapist?
Finding the right therapist is so important as it establishes a foundation of trust, creating a safe space for open communication. A well-matched therapist can better understand your individual needs, ensuring personalized support and enhancing the effectiveness of the therapeutic process.
What services do you offer?
Headlight services include therapy, medication management, and Esketamine (Spravato) sessions.
More than 50% of Americans struggle with mental health.
Headlight is now collaborating with health plans and companies to make therapy more accessible and affordable. Get scheduled now.