Living with seasonal affective disorder

It has been known for a long time that people's mood may change according to the season. Usually it is mild "winter blues" and does not cause too much suffering. There are others who can become quite disabled and depressed during the winter months. They often become better when spring arrives. This seems to follow a regular pattern every year.

Seasonal affective disorder or SAD affects an estimated half a million people every winter, especially between December and February. It can appear at any age. The depression may start between September and November and continue until March or April. It will follow a pattern of occurring every winter. You may feel irritable and very tired. This will affect your sleep. Most people with SAD tend to sleep more and have difficulty staying awake. Some have disturbed sleep and may wake up early in the morning.