---
title: Signs of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
description: The holidays can be emotionally challenging and can bring along what is known as a seasonal affective disorder or SAD. These are some signs and symptoms of SAD to consider.
---

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# [Signs of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)](https://wefixbrains.com/resources/signs-of-seasonal-affective-disorder)

 Written by [Jim Ming](https://wefixbrains.com/resources/author/jim-ming) | Dec, 2024

As the winter solstice approaches, days become shorter and darker. Often, the commute between home and work or school takes place in darkness. In addition, the holiday season can bring up family conflicts, loneliness, grief, money concerns, or increased use of substances such as alcohol. Even therapy in Dallas, far South of our snowy neighbors, is full of those who find the winter season challenging. Some people experience serious mood changes in response to these seasonal changes. If that sounds like you, it may be time to consult with a professional who can evaluate you for signs of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). 

## Here are some possible symptoms of SAD to take into consideration:

- **Sadness** or depressed mood
- Loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities (known as anhedonia)
- Changes in appetite or cravings; weight gain or loss
- Change in sleep patterns; often too much
- **Decreased energy** or increased fatigue despite increased sleep 
- Increase in purposeless physical activity (e.g., pacing, fidgeting, handwringing) or slowed movements or speech that are observable by others
- Feelings of guilt, hopelessness, or worthlessness
- Difficulty thinking, concentrating, or making decisions
- Thoughts of death or suicide
- **Improvement** as spring and summer begin

A mental health specialist can help you determine if your symptoms could be SAD, clinical depression, a mood disorder, or another condition that could potentially be treated with behavioral therapy. 

 

Reach out to me at [Lifeologie Counseling Dallas](https://wefixbrains.com/locations/dallas-uptown-tx) <https://wefixbrains.com/locations/dallas-uptown-tx>and [Lifeologie Counseling Fort Worth](https://wefixbrains.com/locations/fort-worth-tx)[, ](https://wefixbrains.com/locations/fort-worth-tx)where I am currently scheduling new clients who struggle [with ](https://wefixbrains.com/locations/fort-worth-tx)many other emotional and mental health concerns. If this sounds like you, please call our Client Care Team at (214) 357-4001 to discuss Lifeologie Counseling's specialties and services. Outside Texas, you can [search for a therapist near you](https://wefixbrains.com/therapists?location=911954445) or ask your primary care provider for their recommendations.

 

To learn more about coping with SAD, read my Lifeologie Counseling Midlothian colleague Jed Aquillo's blog, [How To Combat Seasonal Depression](https://wefixbrains.com/resources/how-to-combat-seasonal-depression). <https://wefixbrains.com/resources/how-to-combat-seasonal-depression>

 

To read more Lifeologie Counseling blogs about depression, [**search our Resources section**](https://wefixbrains.com/resources)** **<https://wefixbrains.com/resources>or sign up for our monthly emails that feature new therapists' blogs each month about the best in mental health. 

 

If you are having suicidal thoughts, **contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 **for support and assistance from a trained counselor. **If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.**

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