WASHINGTON STATE — Getting an extra hour to enjoy this weekend sounds like a win.
On the other hand, the seasonal switch can be a sign of a tough time to come for a lot of people.
“Seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, it’s a form of clinical depression that follows a seasonal pattern where the depression symptoms are in effect during certain seasons of the year and they resolve in the opposite seasons of the year,” said Kelly Rohan, a psychology researcher at the University of Vermont.
Scientists are learning how specialized cells in our eyes turn the blue wavelength part of the light spectrum into neural signals affecting mood and alertness. Sunlight is loaded with blue light.
“There are many helpful treatments for seasonal depression. They include antidepressant medications, bright light therapy, and cognitive behavioral talk therapy,” Rohan said.
Bright light therapy involves devices that emit light about 20 times brighter than regular indoor light. Researchers suggest using them for 30 minutes every morning.
“Try to get outside as much as possible. There’s plenty of light to be had in the wintertime. You just have to dress appropriately,” said Rohan.
There is a summer version of seasonal depression, but less is known about it.
The Impact of Seasonal Changes on Mental Health: An Interview with Kelly Rohan
Editor at Time.news: Thank you for joining us today, Kelly. With the seasonal switch upon us, many people are excited about gaining an extra hour of daylight this weekend. However, this transition can also trigger challenges for some individuals. Could you elaborate on what Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is and how it affects people?
Kelly Rohan, Psychology Researcher: Absolutely, and thank you for having me. Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, is a form of clinical depression that manifests in a seasonal pattern. Typically, individuals experience symptoms during specific seasons—most commonly in the fall and winter—when daylight hours decrease, and then those symptoms resolve as we move into spring and summer. This cyclical nature can catch many people off guard, as they might feel normal during the sunnier months but struggle when days become shorter.
Editor: That’s a crucial point to understand. What are the scientific underpinnings of SAD? Why does reduced sunlight impact our mood?
Kelly Rohan: Great question! Recent studies have shown that specialized cells in our eyes are sensitive to blue wavelengths of light, which are abundant in sunlight. When we lack exposure to this light during the darker months, it can lead to changes in our circadian rhythms and hormonal balances, directly affecting mood, alertness, and overall mental well-being. Sunlight plays a pivotal role in regulating our mood.
Editor: In light of these implications, what strategies or treatments do you recommend for those struggling with SAD?
Kelly Rohan: There are several effective treatments available for seasonal depression. Antidepressant medications can be beneficial for many individuals, but there are non-pharmaceutical options as well. Bright light therapy is quite popular—it involves using devices that emit light about 20 times brighter than typical indoor lighting. Spending about 30 minutes each morning under this light can significantly alleviate symptoms. Cognitive behavioral talk therapy is another excellent approach, helping individuals address negative patterns of thinking and behavior associated with SAD.
Editor: That’s very insightful. Along with therapy and treatments, what practical advice do you have for people looking to combat the effects of SAD during the winter months?
Kelly Rohan: One simple yet effective strategy is to maximize your exposure to any available natural light. Encourage people to go outdoors as much as possible, even on cloudy days. Dressing appropriately for the weather allows individuals to soak up as much light as they can, which can have a profound effect on improving mood.
Editor: Additionally, is there a summer version of seasonal depression that people should be aware of?
Kelly Rohan: Yes, there is indeed a summer variant of seasonal depression, but it is less understood and less common than winter SAD. Some individuals may experience heightened anxiety or depressive symptoms during the summer months, often linked to longer days and increased heat. Research in this area is ongoing, as we learn more about how seasonal changes can affect mental health in different ways.
Editor: Thank you for sharing this valuable information, Kelly. As we move into a new season, it’s essential for our readers to understand both the challenges and the proactive steps they can take to support their mental health.
Kelly Rohan: My pleasure! Awareness is the first step toward addressing these issues, and I appreciate the opportunity to discuss it.