Beckley, W. Va. (WOAY)- As winter sets in across West Virginia, shorter days and limited sunlight can take a toll on mental health. Doctors say seasonal affective disorder, often called SAD, becomes more common during the colder months when people spend more time indoors and have less exposure to natural light.
Kane Maiers, Associate Medical Director with UPMC GoHealth in West Virginia, explains that SAD can cause noticeable changes in mood, energy, and motivation.
“When we get into the winter months and people are inside more and the days are shorter, there’s not as much natural light,” Maiers said. “Sometimes that can lead to a depressed mood in folks. Usually not to the point of a true depressive episode but heading in that direction.”
According to Maiers, people experiencing seasonal affective disorder may feel more tired than usual and struggle with motivation. Some may sleep too much, while others have difficulty sleeping at all. Changes in appetite are also common, with some people eating more than usual and others eating less. A lack of interest in activities that are normally enjoyable can also be a warning sign.
We asked if there are any clear patterns among patients who struggle with seasonal affective disorder. Maiers says SAD does not always follow a specific pattern and can affect people differently from one individual to the next.
For anyone who may be experiencing these symptoms, Maiers says there are steps people can take to help cope during the winter months.
He recommends staying active and continuing to do things you enjoy, even when motivation is low. Getting natural light whenever possible is also important. On days when temperatures allow, spending even a short amount of time outdoors can help. Opening blinds and curtains inside the home can also increase light exposure.
Maintaining a healthy diet and establishing a consistent sleep schedule are additional ways to manage symptoms. Maiers suggests finding activities to stay busy during evening hours and aiming for eight to ten hours of sleep each night.
While treatment and coping strategies look different for everyone, sometimes comfort can come from the simplest moments. In my experience, a hug from my dog always helps.
