The main cause of seasonal affective disorder is still a mystery to physicians and researchers. However, research has determined that genetics, health conditions, age, and the body’s natural chemicals all play a role in those individuals who suffer from seasonal affective disorder. A few more factors you should consider are your biological clock and your melatonin and serotonin levels.

- Biological Clock: When the seasons change, your body may have a hard time adjusting to the different levels of sunlight. The amount of sunlight you see during the fall and winter can throw off your body’s biological clock. Your body’s clock tells you when you should be tired and when you should be awake. Disruptions to the body’s clock may lead to depression.

- Melatonin Levels: Melatonin is a natural hormone that plays an active role in your sleep patterns and moods. When the seasons change, your body may have to readjust, and your melatonin levels may not even out to what they should be. You can take melatonin supplements to supplement the natural hormone in your body, but please contact a physician before you start.

- Serotonin Levels: Serotonin is a natural brain chemical that controls your mood and may play a role in seasonal affective disorder. Reduced levels of sunshine can cause a drop in serotonin that may lead to depression.

Some risk factors that may increase the likelihood of getting seasonal affective disorder include being female, your home’s distance from the equator, and genetics. According to the Mayo Clinic, “some studies show that seasonal affective disorder is diagnosed more often in women than in men, but that men may have more severe symptoms.” In addition, individuals living farther from the equator more commonly suffer from seasonal affective disorder. This is because these individuals have less sunlight during the winter months and longer days during the summer, which makes it difficult for the body to adjust.

Seasonal affective disorder, like any other health issue, should not be ignored. If left untreated, it can escalate into a major depressive syndrome. Treatment consists of antidepressant medications and/or light therapy. Additionally, your doctor may recommend spending more time outside, especially in the morning.

If you think you are experiencing symptoms of seasonal affective disorder or any other depression, contact Solace Counseling.