The Do More Agriculture Foundation

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What Is Seasonal Affective Disorder ?

With colder weather and less sunlight, let's discuss what Seasonal Affective Disorder is and how it can affect us. 

According to CAMH, Seasonal Affective Disorder is a type of depression that occurs during the same season each year. It usually happens in the fall or winter, but some people may experience season-linked symptoms in the summer.

Symptoms According to CAMH: 

The major symptom is a sad, despairing mood that:

  • is present most days and lasts most of the day

  • lasts for more than two weeks

  • impairs the person’s performance at work, at school or in social relationships.

Other symptoms of depression include:

  • changes in appetite and weight

  • sleep problems

  • loss of interest in work, hobbies, people or sex

  • withdrawal from family members and friends

  • feeling useless, hopeless, excessively guilty, pessimistic or having low self-esteem

  • agitation or feeling slowed down

  • irritability

  • fatigue

  • trouble concentrating, remembering and making decisions

  • crying easily or feeling like crying but not being able to

  • thoughts of suicide (which should always be taken seriously)

  • a loss of touch with reality, hearing voices (hallucinations) or having strange ideas (delusions).

If you're feeling any of these symptoms, talk to a mental health professional to discuss an action plan that works for you. Visit www.domore.ag/crisis-contacts for local agriculture resources. 


Ways To Help Cope: 

  • Create intentional self care that works well for you. 

  • Try and get some sunlight from outside, or check out light therapy.

  • Creating a routine, especially in the morning. 

  • Make sure to make time for connecting with family and friend. 

  • Get some time outside when possible. 

  • Pay attention to what you are eating and ensure you are eating well and having a balanced meal. 

  • Get some movement. 

  • Make sure you are getting enough sleep.