Purdue Expert: Identifying seasonal depression

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Susan Kersey is a clinical assistant professor in the School of Nursing and a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner at Purdue University. In this video, she explains how people can recognize seasonal depression and what they can do to treat it. Formerly known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD), Major Depressive Disorder with a Seasonal Pattern is when individuals begin experiencing symptoms of depression at a certain time of year, usually in the fall or winter. Symptoms can include decreased energy, difficulty concentrating, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, and even thoughts of death or suicide. Kersey says women are four times more likely to experience this phenomenon than men. However, men are more likely to reject the idea that they are experiencing a depressive episode than women. People in northern states are more likely to suffer from seasonal depression than those in southern states. Kersey encourages people to interact regularly with friends and family during the fall and winter months. If symptoms are starting to interfere with relationships or the ability to accomplish tasks, she recommends reaching out for help. People struggling can call or text 988 or to mental health organizations such as Mental Health America.