During the winter I always wonder why I feel so annoyed and irritated so quickly. Then, when the sun comes out, suddenly I'm the nicest/happiest person ever.
Except I have depression constantly but at this time of the year OOF I really hit rock bottom. Fuck everything. At least Halloween is coming.. so that's cool
I hate cold more than most people I believe. Going outside is not an option for me. So I tend to stay indoors and hibernate most of the winter. My true and long lasting therapy is to move to warmer climates. I'm sure that would nip this SAD crap in the bud.
I left California (outside LA) for Lithuania and when i checked latitude I was up around the equivalent of Hudson Bay. I went to college in northern Vermont so I had long winter nights but nothing like here. I bought a Buerer TL 30 on Amazon to give me winter light for when it isn't out or too cold.
that's an actual real thing, your brain reacts to light day hours differently. There was even a Russian poet who would write all these amazing positive poems about winter and north and cold, but then would describe summer as gray, slow, difficult and oppressive
I am the same way, I always feel like the odd person out in the summer time when I am feeling depressed. Thank you for sharing and making me feel less alone.
I have S.A.D. but it was worse on the East Coast (where I'm from) and got better in the Seattle area! Ha ha! Most people would think the opposite. I get depressed if it DOESN'T rain sometimes.
Could you please do video about how stereotypes affect someone mental health? It is really hurt to have negative label and people look at you differently without actually know who you really are instead of what they see in the media or heard from others about either your faith, gender, race, class, country, etc. Thanks for your videos! :)
Thanks Kati! I really hope people stop stereotyping each other and live in peace. Some people feel very nervous to ask for help and talk comfortably in therapy just because of this. And they have a difficult time bring this issue first with their therapists .
this video really resonates with me. I know I've been dealing with depressive issues and it does mostly affect me around the holidays from canadian thanksgiving through to about easter, I already have an appointment with a physician this week coming and I think this might be something to discuss with her.
#KatiFAQ Hey, Kati! Thank you for this video. I have been having an issue sometimes when I try to eat. I gag when I try to chew my food and it's very unpleasant and I have to spit it out most of the time because I'm afraid that I'll get sick and I do NOT handle throwing up well AT ALL, whether it's myself being sick or anyone else or even seeing it in a movie. It makes my stomach sore and uncomfortable. I was wondering if the gagging could be an ED thing? I have never made myself get physically sick and never will, but I do have EDNOS. I experienced the gagging last spring but it hasn't been a problem again until recently. I'm sorry if you've already answered a question like this. I checked and I don't think you have. I love your videos.
Great video! Before I knew that SAD even existed I literally thought that I was going crazy because I have been struggling with this for several years in a row and I had no idea why, and I tried speaking with friends and relatives about it but most thought that I was just experiencing the typical "winter blues" and basically told me to grow up and get over it. Either way I decided to do some research and found out about SAD. It's good to know that I'm not losing my mind haha. So far I haven't taken any medication, or sought professional help, but a good coping method for me is meditation, it keeps the negative thoughts away and lightens up my mood a bit, I actually might invest on a light box since fall is coming soon unfortunately.
I have severe depression, anxiety, and ADD. My depression does get way worse during the winter though, and it’s extremely difficult this year to do anything productive.
My worst time of the year is january to april. I just feel horrible, i hate myself and i lose interest in friendships and i convince myself that everyone is lying to me :(
I´d like to mention one big important fact: Meds don´t suit everyone. For me they didn´t make much difference, just lots of side effects.. Basketball was the only thing that made me happy, just hanging round the court all day enjoying pick-up games. I am a musician, but for example I didn´t find any joy in making music or even listening to it: Just try everything out there is, like Sports or any other phisically activating activities, and your spirit and mind will heal automatically as you find joy in those. Meds are the last solution, and a 50/50 chance in making things worse in my case!
I feel this on another level. I started taking citalopram 5 weeks ago for SAD and it was making things worse. I only feel better while and after I've been running. I'm a full time runner and I've never felt better in my running than right now. Find your medicine and stick to it I say 👊
I despise summer, but I don't know if I have this disorder because I feel depressed year round. I feel awful about being in a bathing suit, shorts, short sleeves etc. and hot weather makes me super irritable, angry, sad, and actually cheated out of a period of time where I'm comfortable with what is around me, and my body in general.
I have serious emotional struggles in late June-early July. A bathing suit is not the problem, though. Depression is usually what f**** up that time of year. Plus I hate hot weather with a passion! The sun is not my friend, and I probably spend more time indoors during the summer than during the winter.
Glad found someone else feel same way! I'm in Texas and when we have mid to upper 90s with 60% humidity ( making it feel like 100+). I feel COMPLETELY drained of all energy and even achy all over like a bad cold. I have to be careful since last 2 summers I was out in weather like that I was dizzy and nauseous that day and all next day.😞
Nah I love the summer. But winter gives me so much anxiety because the sun goes down to fast and I love being outside and I have nothing to do later on. I’m like “HURRY TF UP TIME”
I like to be more specific about the SUN and it's effect on the brain for people who live in the northern latitudes. In the Fall, the SUN moves south into the southern hemisphere, people get sad. When the SUN begins to come back, people get happy, as in the Spring--Both plants and people are completely dependent on the energy of the SUN.
Great video, you have a very likeable personality ! Two often overlooked aspects I find that contribute to depression is loneliness and to SAD specifically, is feelings of cold. Even in the summer if the AC is particularly strong and my hands and feet are cold, I find I become very lethargic and can sleep all day. After going outside and warming up I feel like my energy levels go back up. In the winter I always have that cold feeling and it makes it more difficult to find motivation to get ready and hit the gym or go run errands. Secondly loneliness I feel is a major contributor to SAD and depression in general. I find when I'm by myself majority of the time at work and at home I start feeling isolated and detached from everything and this is when depressive symptoms start to ramp up. Especially if I'm alone surrounded by people. However if I'm around company I genuinely feel connected to I feel much better in the moment and I notice my energy levels go up again.
Canada is a great country to live and is considered in the top 10 countries from a standard of living point of view. But the biggest downside is winter. Winter is a living hell for me and so many other Canadians and SAD is one of about literally 20 reasons. I just got a light box. I hope it is the right kind!
@@abdelkarimalabdallah5770 Thanks for asking! The pandemic has been a game changer. I think a lot of this has come from trauma in my childhood. The winter just brings up those feelings of desolation and despair that was my childhood. Who knows, no matter what, I might have seasonal affective disorder anyways, but I think the imprint of unhappy childhood doesn't help. I am going into therapy for trauma soon and am already journalling about key moments, which brings up more than you would think. Cheers and thanks again!
Hello Kati I was wondering if scratching yourself till you bleed when you're feeling extremely down is considered Self-Harm? Well is it considered Self-Harm only when you use a knife or blade? I really appreciate your website and your videos. Thank you for everything. #katifaq
I have the same traits usually picking scabs or like kicking trees ,punching doors and walls (not as hard but easier) your videos are so inspiring Kati. Because of your videos about getting help although through my low mood and self esteem I thought I didn't need help you gave me the strength to reach out for help I am now starting sessions with the school councillor now sorry this is so long
If you are scratching yourself to intentionally cause yourself pain, it is self harm. Self harm comes in many forms, not just cutting :) ProudBelieber18
I've been looking through the comment section and seen no one say Spring gives them SAD , guess I am different. Maybe I'm the opposite of SAD and just dislike the sun...maybe
Couldn't the weather play a role too? I have lived all over. Grew up in the Boston area, went to school in Syracuse, lived in Tel Aviv for a year. I found in Syracuse I had more SAD in the fall then I would living in Boston because it was so cold, I wasn't even motivated to go out at night and just wanted to stay in my dorm. While living in Tel Aviv in December I was in my Spring, Summer, and Fall routine, with the 80 F weather, gaining out for walks, biking, being active, working more often. So even knowing the sun was still sitting around 5, I felt how I would in July in Boston.
Katie thank you so much for making and sharing these videos. I've followed them off and on since at least 2019. Of all the videos I've seen on this topic, yours is the first I've heard mention sensitivity to rejection as a symptom. I find that fascinating.
I fucking regret moving to UK. I Love Snow etc. But when it's just windy and grey, dusky eugh fuck that. I'm planning to go back to my country this year. I never want to return here for more than 2 weeks per visit. England depresses me so much. I need my Sun and Nature and Sea. If I want Cold, I can climb on top of the highest mountain of my land and do skiing etc and camp there for a whole month in sometimes grey, dusky, rainy weather because I know I am not limited heavily to what I wanna do.
welp if you give a fuck, heres my check list Oversleeping: no Irritability: maybe Low energy: yes Weight Gain: cant, I'm 13 XD Appetite Changes: yes Hyper sensitive: yes
Spring is dark too. It’s cold , cloudy and rainy. I hate it. I’m taking medication for reg anxiety but it doesn’t really work during winter and spring.
sooo, I don't know why they would take you off the med. and back on, and then you have withdrawal from not being on it, and then put you back on the med.and then you're waiting for another month for results and then you're going back and forth and then bad cycle. soid suggest you stay on the med. trust me I know the feeling.
Can this affect people at other times then winter? I have a really hard time this time of year. My two brothers died in a car accident in May 2006, and my depression and suicidal symptoms seem to always get worse this time of year. They seem worse this year because of the pandemic and everything so now I'm wondering if I have this too.
This is a long shot but I am really badly depressed from January-November and I know its because of Christmas. Its really hard for me almost all year around and its got so bad I need help but I really don't want to go to a doctor about it, is there anything you can suggest? I'm not sure if this is reverse s.a.d or what but it would mean the world to me if you could help.
Ok so I have a #katifaq What is your views/advice on deciding to go through with a re-trial? I went to the police in 2006 aged 18, on my own. I reported a crime that was commited against me (childhood sexual abuse 8-13 years old). 2yrs later there was a crown court case. He got not guilty. I feel the police & CPS completely let me down & failed me. I wasn't offered any help/support & wasn't informed of what was happening. I found out from my mum that he got not guilty as she went to the verdict, I was never contacted again from anyone or informed anything or offered any help/support. 6 years later I am seriously considering requesting a retrial. I have arranged an app with a solicitor to get legal advise etc. but I don't know wether this is a good idea or not?? It's such a huge massive impacting decision to make. Would love your advise on this please xxx
Mine is so severe that I develope intense hypersomnia 😔. Not even just the winter, it can be a random week in May that just happens to be cloudy or even 1 random rainy day
I have felt with this every year for the last 4 years but when I first got it I didn't realize what it was. It took me a while to figure out what was affecting me. This is the first year I'm able to truly understand myself and work twords fixing it. Thank you.
I have SAD really bad and i hate it. for me its because i currently live somewhere where it is long winter and spring doesnt arrive till late so i get depressed when i see it looks nice elsewhere....i just wanna be in warm always and flowers etc.
Hi Kati, I was wondering if (one time, maybe in a video or a comment) you could explain the differences between therapists, psychiatrists and psychologists and why/what you would go to each one for? Also, I love your videos and totally agree with your new schedule for your videos, also I love the TV guide on your website, it's so helpful to find the exact video you want, thank you so much for your videos as well! Xxxx
I always get so depressed during Christmas/around Christmas time, I think it's bc my parents and I live far away and can't really spend it with the rest of the family. I actually dread Christmas. It's so bad I know and I wish I didn't feel this way but I always do, I always end up crying every Christmas 😞
I’m a little concerned because when i have depression from SAD, it’s more than the symptoms you described. I get more anxious easily, and can have terrible ocd intrusive thoughts
I personally think the DSM should include recurring events that happen at regular intervals, like elections, as part of SAD. Since we're constantly bombarded with ads every election season, there's almost no escaping it, especially when you feel like your vote doesn't matter and the candidate with the most money wins. The past few elections, the candidates I supported either lost or failed to live up to their promises. Edit: I have Major Depressive Disorder, but it's worse during election seasons.
This was such a helpful video - thank you Kati! I've been wondering for a while if I suffer with SAD, I'm not so sure after watching this - it seems to be more of an all year round up and down thing as opposed to just seasonal. I'll be sure to look more in to it. :) xx
#KatiFAQ Hi Kati, just wondering what the best approach when work is affecting our recovery or triggering? I work in the fitness industry, I love what I do how ever I find it triggers my ED. My ED voice loves hearing fro people how much weight i have lost and how good i am looking. My logical voice get really upset when people tell me i am their inspiration or that I should stick with what i am doing coz it is working. Obviously i can not just give up my job but are there any good coping skills i can use in situation where i can not control what people are saying to me? thanks
Hi for the past six or seven months I have been feeling very depressed. I'm very secretive about this so much I'm not even using my main account for this comment. I can't tell my parents grandparents or anybody at all. Also I feel like I want to get help but I feel like i just want to stay the way i am at the same time. I just relly feel like I need some help dealing with it. Thanks.
hey Kati, I think I have anxiety and panic attacks and want to see someone about it but get it gets me nervous. What do I say? I forget what it feels likes to have a panic the next day when it's time to talk about it. How did it start and build up? and I just get really nervous what if it's not anxiety? And I don't want my parents or friends knowing I'm seeing a therapist cause I don't want them to think it's because of attention I really think whats going on is a problem
Convince them to go get medical advice from their doctor or GP and get either CBT light therapy (which is the most effective in my opinion) or drug therapy. :) also introduce them to a TH-camr called RomanAtwood and he'll put a smile on anyone's face. Smile more
#KatiFAQ ....Thank you so much for your videos, Kati! :) I have a couple possible video ideas for the future. 1) Postpartum Depression 2) Complex PTSD Thanks again for all you do and your sincere support of complete strangers!
Kati I go threw this almost every summer because it's not my thing I hate summer because it's depressing that I don't get to travel or the heat is too overwhelming for me Im more of a winter person I wish I lived in Russia im real serious summer irritates my skin like crazy the sun and the heatness I need the snow on me I wish I wasn't like this but I can't help it!
***** sorry for the late response well I had this problem since I was a kid so unfortunately I can't tan or else I end up consuming the who healing cream lol I try not to hate the sun but it just gives me the dam rash and especially living in New York it's boring in the summer the beaches are nasty and dirty here nothing exotic I need a vacation btw thanx for the compliment :-)
***** hey goodmorning I was asleep well at least PA have all sorts of nice places like hershey park dorney and the pocanoes and btw I had to edited my pictures with a touch of a tan color in real I look pale :( I use sunscreen or sun block so I dont end up with rashes and funny thing is that the doctor prescribe me to take vitamin D because of lack of sun lol
SAD is Seasonal and not just winter and fall... its the same thing.... its just most have it in the fall/winter. Trust me I get it from the spring time.
Hey Kati, I live on the east coast and we've been getting slammed by the snow. I keep having to cancel my therapy appointments because the of the snow. Anything I can do in the meantime so I don't go batshit? I've been writing but it's not the same or enough :/! thank you! ***** #KatiFAQ
Thank you for this Kati , I'm still confused with myself though because i get pretty depressed more so of the winter month's like i just find myself crying all the time especially when I'm alone but yet wake up in the middle of the night a few time's and suffer with "Depression symptoms" But yet it only seem's to be in the cold months. What would you say?? i have nothing to be sad about i have a great life but yet sometimes it can be hard when I'm alone.
Winter used to not affect me so much before I had situational depression. But after I began having situational depression (that has a cause that isn't even related to the weather), for the past 2 years I have had anhedonia in the winter. And the contrast between those anhedonic and non-anhedonic depression times is brutal. The cold months here are about a month after the December holidays, and that icy weather paired with the end of uplifting decorations, the end of good times with family members due to long distance, the return to school/work and little to no warmth and sunlight hits me like a sack of bricks every year 😂. But I will keep on soaking in whatever ounce of sunlight I can grab, playing with other people's dogs, and eating lots of oranges--cause those simple things make winter so much more livable for me! ❤
So many times I read or hear about something I'm like: Oh yeah, I have that. I seem to have SAD, I definitely have PMS, I (did) struggle with depression and selfharm and I have a sleeping disorder. But I never go see a doctor, because all the symptoms appear and disappear (PMS only like 12 days a month, SAD only in winter (I'm sooo happy right now because spring startet) and also my sleeping problems are sometime worse and sometimes better.) Maybe I should go to a doctor to work stuff out. But I live in a small town and we don't have that many therapists, so if see one, I get the appointment that somebody else might need more.
What if I'm 13 and very awkward to talk about my feelings and afraid to be told wrong incase I DONT have S.A.D. Which my mother said I might have and I think I have? I don't want anyone to know if I do because I hate being the center of attention. And is another symptom losing interest in things you used to like to do and push your friends away and locking yourself in a dark room and never leave?
It took 26 years, yeah! 26 long years to know ,what is actually wrong with me,I realized first time that something is wrong with me when I was 15 years old...........now I am 30, untreated, uncured.....my life is disaster, I have no career, no skill, no accomplishments, no name, no joy, no money, no girlfriend.....but I am still fighting, each and every moment I'm fighting with my innerself......I know I will win this battel.
Hello as a new subscriber i have a question. I have beenin therapy for two years now for trauma abuse and ptsd. The ptsd has effected my life to the point where i cant work full time. After two years my therapist is working on edmt (might ofspelled it incirrectly)With me. Do you have any vids on youtube on this therapy? And in your opinion does it work? Does the ptsd ever get better? I have had a trauma therapist a regular therapist and a psychilogist. I sometimes get impatient. What is your reaction tothis?
Kati I'm trying to register on your website but my activation email isn't coming through… tried twice and checked my junk inbox just in case and I got nothing :(
I always get sad in the winter, and having a miscarriage in the summer and husband always working I've noticed I'm not the same, nothing motivates me:/, I'm not depressed I get excited going out and playing with my kids but I can't seem to get motivated for nothing regarding things with me, like I don't feel like doing nothing for me. Ahhhh I don't know
Wow, this was so informative! Thank you for sending me the link to this video, Kati! I am SO relieved to learn that SAD can cause appetite changes and weight gain, because I swear, all I want to do is eat! Which is really frustrating, since I'm about 100 pounds overweight and am trying hard to eat nutritious, healthy foods and exercise! SAD and living in a dark, cloudy, gloomy climate really thwart my weight loss endeavors. But, I won't give up!
#katifaq is there a certain amount of time you have to be manic/ depressed to be diagnosed with bipolar disorder? I think I have bipolar disorder (have not been professionally diagnosed yet). I can go from manic to depressed within minutes is that normal. Thanks.
I have a concern about stalking a therapist via social media and being close to the places where she is usually there. I know this is not a right behavior and I felt guilty about now, but how can I make sure to not go to it again and wether or not should I tell the therapist about it ? #katifaq
Can you have SAD and major depression? Also I was wondering, why do I still struggle so much with my major depression when I'm on the right medication, been without a pyciatrist/psychologist/dietitian and hospital for over 6 months? Basically, is life going to always to suck if you have mental illness?
This happens to me every year. As follows: January: "Horray! Clean slate! What would I like to do? Kinda not much worth doing outside. Got these inside projects..." February: "Achk! Why can't I sleep? No matter. Projects..." March: "I'm feeling really blue. Wanna do prrojects, but can't concentrate. Sleep all the time now. Why is everyone so crappy?" April: "Can't do projects. Life is horrible1 I feel like I'm dying inside! My soul is disappearing1 Can't stand everyone, and the constant noise of their bickering! Gotta find a hiding place. Nope, back hurts there. I was feeling fine earlier! Why now? Maybe some more sun will help. Why does April always suck??? If that fly buzzes past me ONE MORE TIME, I'm gonna spray this living room till you can't live in it for a year!!! If men with tanks show up at the door...I don't even care anymore." May: "Things are still kinda blah. But at least I can concentrate again. Sort of." June: "Work work work work work..." July: "I feel on top of the world!!!" August: "Ragweed season is coming. Days already getting shorter. Walls closing in. Work. Hide from it. Stockpile the antihistamines. You can make it through this. Welcome to the family camper. Your iron lung for the next month or so. It isn't *quite* solitary confinement. And at least you get to play video games." September: "Ragweed season won't last forever. I'll survive this. Nice Back to School sale. Projects..." October: "The days are too short! It's too cold too fast! Halloween season used to be special? Why is it so blah to me now? I'm being gyped and I don't even know why!" November: "Oh sure. Another Thanksgiving. Who broke what food tray this time? It's dark. Too dark. All this pre-Christmas stress! Wish they'd just stop yelling at each other! I can't hear myself think through all the noise!" December: 'Walls are closing in. Gotta wrap up what I can on projects. Christmas...that happened way too fast. Blink, and I would've missed it. The joy of sparkling grape juice just doesn't last. Another car window scraper? I don't even have a car! New Year's. They didn't get me shrimp? Blasphemy! Ball drops, yadda yadda yadda..." =========== Seasonal affective, or would you say some other issue(s)? I was diagnosed as Aspergers in 1997, but I'm pretty sure that isn't the whole story. I'm moody and insecure and irriitable all year round. It just manifests itself a litttle differently each month. The above are generalizations of my moods, and specifics can be altered by specific life events.
I always feel depressed around fall all through spring because I hate winter. I am somewhat happy as long I keep myself busy but how do I know I may have SAD?
***** #faq Is a child who is constantly picking scabs more prone to SH? Scabs that have been repeatedly picked at for months.. Thank you for all your videos.
My mother also deals with SAD. Not sure about my grandmother, but I'm guessing she might have it, too, since dementia and various mental disorders have been known to run on that side of my family.
I experience exactly these symptoms every year. But I have them in the summer and not in the winter. Every year since I was about 22 years old I have become horribly depressed every late May/early June with severe irritability, massive fatigue and lethargy, crying spells and a body that aches so bad I can barely drag myself to work in the morning. I despise the heat and the bright sunlight and these things actually become physically painful for me. I am positive I am suffering from some kind of SAD variant but I have only found suggestions for people who have it in the winter. What is recommended for people who have SAD in the summer?
Never been diagnosed with this but the moment the days get shorter and the sky turns grey I am suicidal can't get out of bed. Crying uncontrollably. And just in a really bad way and when spring comes I am elated all the time and so excitable.
There are a few people i see who have commented on the cold being a key factor in their SADs. I believe this to be much more of a factor for myself than the light because for the last 2 years I've worked a shift from 3pm-8pm where i am indoors with no windows so would not really notice the change in daylight hours. By the time i get off work with the exception of a few months its dark regardless. I do have a daylight and its great but whats noticeable to me is that the winter days when its +10 and raining i actually feel better than when its -4 and sunny. And last year we had a warmer than usual winter and I was fine. This year i can't seem to get out of my own way with temperature as low as -23 so far. Can your body's inability to retain heat also reduce melatonin and serotonin levels? Or is there another level I should be checking for. FYI I've had my thyroid checked and its working perfectly.
I live in FL and have always gotten so depressed over summer. I hate heat and humidity. Lived in ND for a year and loved every minute of it. Hopefully I can move out there permanently in the future. Give me cold and snow any day.
Yes! My college transition has made more difficult I've made the move from California to north of Seattle... it definitely feels like winter is a hibernation period here that doesn't seem to happen in the Bay Area. Thank you for this video, I appreciate the tips.
I read something today about how seasonal changes can affect the moods of someone with Bipolar Disorder. Is this true? I was reading up about it because I've noticed a pattern in my mood changes in specific seasons - Summer I am more inclined to mixed episodes (which I'm experiencing right now), Spring is more manic and Winter is depression. Just wondering what your thoughts are on that?
Any suggestions for a shift worker? (not all night shifts, some days too; it switches back and forth!) I feel like this is definitely messing with my circadian rhythm and natural melatonin levels.
Would the melatonin levels increase from the lack of sunlight and that is the cause of the decreased energy levels, due to too much melatonin causing us to want to go to bed?
I feel like I have a sleeping disorder but I don't know what it is. It takes me hours to get to sleep and I can rarely stay asleep. It means I miss a lot of school and I'm falling behind in the majority of my subjects. I also over sleep or under sleep. I can't remember the last time I had a good nights sleep. I also get sad in winter. I don't have insomnia. I get anxiety attacks and I'm constantly paranoid. I don't really know what to do but a friend of mine sent me a link to your page, so I just need some kind of identification on why I'm like this and how it can stop. Sorry for the huge ramble paragraph. Thanks x
During Autumn and Winter, I feel very still. I have been like that for awhile especially because I am in a dorm room with linoleum floors, fluorescent light and practically little to no heating during these months, and it is coming, on top of that I have PMDD, I wish I can just catch a break. :(
Thank you Kati, this winter has been the worst. I really thought I was going crazy. This video put me at ease. Thank you. You hit right on everything I've been feeling. I also just watched your video on aging and depression. I'm 49. I've been snapping in anger and I felt so much better when you talked about that. I thought I was the only one. You're so sweet to offer these videos to us for free. You'll never know how much we appreciate them. You will be blessed. Lots of love.
During the winter I always wonder why I feel so annoyed and irritated so quickly. Then, when the sun comes out, suddenly I'm the nicest/happiest person ever.
It's that time of the years my dudes
Except I have depression constantly but at this time of the year OOF I really hit rock bottom. Fuck everything. At least Halloween is coming.. so that's cool
Black Abbath 666 that’s why I’m here lmao
Halloween rocks
नमस्ते
It sure it's.. it's just starting for me -shrug-
I hate cold more than most people I believe. Going outside is not an option for me. So I tend to stay indoors and hibernate most of the winter. My true and long lasting therapy is to move to warmer climates. I'm sure that would nip this SAD crap in the bud.
Me too
Just want tropical weather
In Canada, winter spans almost the entire school year. It's extremely hard to not be depressed during school in the gray of winter
Jacklyn Cunningham i know! i’m not sure if i have dysthymia or seasonal affective disorder (or both?).
I left California (outside LA) for Lithuania and when i checked latitude I was up around the equivalent of Hudson Bay. I went to college in northern Vermont so I had long winter nights but nothing like here. I bought a Buerer TL 30 on Amazon to give me winter light for when it isn't out or too cold.
I'm the opposite. I'm best during winter months and struggle more during the rest of the year.
that's an actual real thing, your brain reacts to light day hours differently. There was even a Russian poet who would write all these amazing positive poems about winter and north and cold, but then would describe summer as gray, slow, difficult and oppressive
I am the same way, I always feel like the odd person out in the summer time when I am feeling depressed. Thank you for sharing and making me feel less alone.
Were u born during winter months?
When she was going over the the signs of SAD I was like "Damn, she's calling me out."
I have it and it fucking sucks. I hate winter with a burning passion. I have to get out of Illinois. Trapped inside for 5 months is no way to live.
Frank McCullough I feel ya, mate. I live in Illinos too. I want to move to California.
I live in Oklahoma, so if you like any season and time of the year, move here ;) ( and tornados , those to )
Frank McCullough I feel you brother :(
I have S.A.D. but it was worse on the East Coast (where I'm from) and got better in the Seattle area! Ha ha! Most people would think the opposite. I get depressed if it DOESN'T rain sometimes.
Could you please do video about how stereotypes affect someone mental health? It is really hurt to have negative label and people look at you differently without actually know who you really are instead of what they see in the media or heard from others about either your faith, gender, race, class, country, etc.
Thanks for your videos! :)
Thanks Kati! I really hope people stop stereotyping each other and live in peace. Some people feel very nervous to ask for help and talk comfortably in therapy just because of this. And they have a difficult time bring this issue first with their therapists .
this video really resonates with me. I know I've been dealing with depressive issues and it does mostly affect me around the holidays from canadian thanksgiving through to about easter, I already have an appointment with a physician this week coming and I think this might be something to discuss with her.
#KatiFAQ Hey, Kati! Thank you for this video.
I have been having an issue sometimes when I try to eat. I gag when I try to chew my food and it's very unpleasant and I have to spit it out most of the time because I'm afraid that I'll get sick and I do NOT handle throwing up well AT ALL, whether it's myself being sick or anyone else or even seeing it in a movie. It makes my stomach sore and uncomfortable. I was wondering if the gagging could be an ED thing? I have never made myself get physically sick and never will, but I do have EDNOS. I experienced the gagging last spring but it hasn't been a problem again until recently.
I'm sorry if you've already answered a question like this. I checked and I don't think you have. I love your videos.
I get reverse sad. Every damn spring...
Great video! Before I knew that SAD even existed I literally thought that I was going crazy because I have been struggling with this for several years in a row and I had no idea why, and I tried speaking with friends and relatives about it but most thought that I was just experiencing the typical "winter blues" and basically told me to grow up and get over it. Either way I decided to do some research and found out about SAD. It's good to know that I'm not losing my mind haha. So far I haven't taken any medication, or sought professional help, but a good coping method for me is meditation, it keeps the negative thoughts away and lightens up my mood a bit, I actually might invest on a light box since fall is coming soon unfortunately.
I have severe depression, anxiety, and ADD. My depression does get way worse during the winter though, and it’s extremely difficult this year to do anything productive.
My worst time of the year is january to april. I just feel horrible, i hate myself and i lose interest in friendships and i convince myself that everyone is lying to me :(
Hello darkness my old friend
Why are you here its 4pm
Ah, seasonal affective disorder, we meet again. 😑
Does anybody feel like there surroundings get real dark and treacherous when winter comes around
I´d like to mention one big important fact: Meds don´t suit everyone. For me they didn´t make much difference, just lots of side effects.. Basketball was the only thing that made me happy, just hanging round the court all day enjoying pick-up games.
I am a musician, but for example I didn´t find any joy in making music or even listening to it:
Just try everything out there is, like Sports or any other phisically activating activities, and your spirit and mind will heal automatically as you find joy in those.
Meds are the last solution, and a 50/50 chance in making things worse in my case!
I feel this on another level. I started taking citalopram 5 weeks ago for SAD and it was making things worse. I only feel better while and after I've been running. I'm a full time runner and I've never felt better in my running than right now. Find your medicine and stick to it I say 👊
Thanks 🙏 for your video and have a nice 👍 day and saludos from Mexico 🇲🇽
I despise summer, but I don't know if I have this disorder because I feel depressed year round. I feel awful about being in a bathing suit, shorts, short sleeves etc. and hot weather makes me super irritable, angry, sad, and actually cheated out of a period of time where I'm comfortable with what is around me, and my body in general.
Your the person I know that mentioned having it ( or possibility of ) in the summer time ( I have it more in the spring tho )
I have serious emotional struggles in late June-early July. A bathing suit is not the problem, though. Depression is usually what f**** up that time of year. Plus I hate hot weather with a passion! The sun is not my friend, and I probably spend more time indoors during the summer than during the winter.
Glad found someone else feel same way! I'm in Texas and when we have mid to upper 90s with 60% humidity ( making it feel like 100+). I feel COMPLETELY drained of all energy and even achy all over like a bad cold. I have to be careful since last 2 summers I was out in weather like that I was dizzy and nauseous that day and all next day.😞
I hate fall.
I tolerate winter.
I love spring.
I like summer.
Does anyone else suffer from summer depression? I am bipolar and I would have longer and more intense depressive episodes when it’s sunny and hot :(
Nah I love the summer. But winter gives me so much anxiety because the sun goes down to fast and I love being outside and I have nothing to do later on. I’m like “HURRY TF UP TIME”
I really want to do good. Really be better with my performance in school, but when october comes, things go off as the plan. Smh
I like to be more specific about the SUN and it's effect on the brain for people who live in the northern latitudes. In the Fall, the SUN moves south into the southern hemisphere, people get sad. When the SUN begins to come back, people get happy, as in the Spring--Both plants and people are completely dependent on the energy of the SUN.
Great video, you have a very likeable personality ! Two often overlooked aspects I find that contribute to depression is loneliness and to SAD specifically, is feelings of cold.
Even in the summer if the AC is particularly strong and my hands and feet are cold, I find I become very lethargic and can sleep all day. After going outside and warming up I feel like my energy levels go back up. In the winter I always have that cold feeling and it makes it more difficult to find motivation to get ready and hit the gym or go run errands.
Secondly loneliness I feel is a major contributor to SAD and depression in general. I find when I'm by myself majority of the time at work and at home I start feeling isolated and detached from everything and this is when depressive symptoms start to ramp up. Especially if I'm alone surrounded by people. However if I'm around company I genuinely feel connected to I feel much better in the moment and I notice my energy levels go up again.
Canada is a great country to live and is considered in the top 10 countries from a standard of living point of view. But the biggest downside is winter. Winter is a living hell for me and so many other Canadians and SAD is one of about literally 20 reasons. I just got a light box. I hope it is the right kind!
@@abdelkarimalabdallah5770 Thanks for asking!
The pandemic has been a game changer. I think a lot of this has come from trauma in my childhood. The winter just brings up those feelings of desolation and despair that was my childhood.
Who knows, no matter what, I might have seasonal affective disorder anyways, but I think the imprint of unhappy childhood doesn't help. I am going into therapy for trauma soon and am already journalling about key moments, which brings up more than you would think.
Cheers and thanks again!
Hello Kati I was wondering if scratching yourself till you bleed when you're feeling extremely down is considered Self-Harm? Well is it considered Self-Harm only when you use a knife or blade? I really appreciate your website and your videos. Thank you for everything. #katifaq
I have the same traits usually picking scabs or like kicking trees ,punching doors and walls (not as hard but easier) your videos are so inspiring Kati. Because of your videos about getting help although through my low mood and self esteem I thought I didn't need help you gave me the strength to reach out for help I am now starting sessions with the school councillor now sorry this is so long
If you are scratching yourself to intentionally cause yourself pain, it is self harm. Self harm comes in many forms, not just cutting :) ProudBelieber18
Thank you for answering my question. I really appreciate it. (:
Thank you. I'm looking forward to your next video and all the ones to come. Thank you for caring, Kati. :)
I've been looking through the comment section and seen no one say Spring gives them SAD , guess I am different. Maybe I'm the opposite of SAD and just dislike the sun...maybe
Couldn't the weather play a role too? I have lived all over. Grew up in the Boston area, went to school in Syracuse, lived in Tel Aviv for a year. I found in Syracuse I had more SAD in the fall then I would living in Boston because it was so cold, I wasn't even motivated to go out at night and just wanted to stay in my dorm. While living in Tel Aviv in December I was in my Spring, Summer, and Fall routine, with the 80 F weather, gaining out for walks, biking, being active, working more often. So even knowing the sun was still sitting around 5, I felt how I would in July in Boston.
Katie thank you so much for making and sharing these videos. I've followed them off and on since at least 2019. Of all the videos I've seen on this topic, yours is the first I've heard mention sensitivity to rejection as a symptom. I find that fascinating.
I fucking regret moving to UK. I Love Snow etc. But when it's just windy and grey, dusky eugh fuck that. I'm planning to go back to my country this year. I never want to return here for more than 2 weeks per visit. England depresses me so much. I need my Sun and Nature and Sea. If I want Cold, I can climb on top of the highest mountain of my land and do skiing etc and camp there for a whole month in sometimes grey, dusky, rainy weather because I know I am not limited heavily to what I wanna do.
I need to move somewhere warm, I’m only productive 2 seasons our of 4. ruining my life
welp if you give a fuck, heres my check list
Oversleeping: no
Irritability: maybe
Low energy: yes
Weight Gain: cant, I'm 13 XD
Appetite Changes: yes
Hyper sensitive: yes
Spring is dark too. It’s cold , cloudy and rainy. I hate it. I’m taking medication for reg anxiety but it doesn’t really work during winter and spring.
Dealing with that right now….I live in the Midwest and the weather is destroying me.
sooo, I don't know why they would take you off the med. and back on, and then you have withdrawal from not being on it, and then put you back on the med.and then you're waiting for another month for results and then you're going back and forth and then bad cycle. soid suggest you stay on the med. trust me I know the feeling.
Can this affect people at other times then winter? I have a really hard time this time of year. My two brothers died in a car accident in May 2006, and my depression and suicidal symptoms seem to always get worse this time of year. They seem worse this year because of the pandemic and everything so now I'm wondering if I have this too.
This is a long shot but I am really badly depressed from January-November and I know its because of Christmas. Its really hard for me almost all year around and its got so bad I need help but I really don't want to go to a doctor about it, is there anything you can suggest? I'm not sure if this is reverse s.a.d or what but it would mean the world to me if you could help.
Ok so I have a #katifaq
What is your views/advice on deciding to go through with a re-trial?
I went to the police in 2006 aged 18, on my own. I reported a crime that was commited against me (childhood sexual abuse 8-13 years old). 2yrs later there was a crown court case. He got not guilty. I feel the police & CPS completely let me down & failed me. I wasn't offered any help/support & wasn't informed of what was happening. I found out from my mum that he got not guilty as she went to the verdict, I was never contacted again from anyone or informed anything or offered any help/support.
6 years later I am seriously considering requesting a retrial. I have arranged an app with a solicitor to get legal advise etc. but I don't know wether this is a good idea or not?? It's such a huge massive impacting decision to make. Would love your advise on this please xxx
Sorry to hear that. What did you decide?
Mine is so severe that I develope intense hypersomnia 😔. Not even just the winter, it can be a random week in May that just happens to be cloudy or even 1 random rainy day
It's 3:30pm and getting dark. It sucks. It won't get light until March. Whyyyyyyyy
Thank you Kati! You are extremely inspiring to me :)
I have felt with this every year for the last 4 years but when I first got it I didn't realize what it was. It took me a while to figure out what was affecting me. This is the first year I'm able to truly understand myself and work twords fixing it. Thank you.
I have SAD really bad and i hate it. for me its because i currently live somewhere where it is long winter and spring doesnt arrive till late so i get depressed when i see it looks nice elsewhere....i just wanna be in warm always and flowers etc.
Hi Kati, I was wondering if (one time, maybe in a video or a comment) you could explain the differences between therapists, psychiatrists and psychologists and why/what you would go to each one for? Also, I love your videos and totally agree with your new schedule for your videos, also I love the TV guide on your website, it's so helpful to find the exact video you want, thank you so much for your videos as well! Xxxx
I have this everytime it’s the fall because that’s when I have to go back to school
I have had deep depression for ab a year, winter just makes it SM worse .
As someone doing psychology and counselling, youre my idol!
I always get so depressed during Christmas/around Christmas time, I think it's bc my parents and I live far away and can't really spend it with the rest of the family. I actually dread Christmas. It's so bad I know and I wish I didn't feel this way but I always do, I always end up crying every Christmas 😞
mel i literally feel that way too. I have some older family who moved out of country and the feeling makes me feel disconnect during the winter. 😔
I’d like a little oversleeping, better than the usual undersleeping
I’m a little concerned because when i have depression from SAD, it’s more than the symptoms you described. I get more anxious easily, and can have terrible ocd intrusive thoughts
Can I have this in the summer?
I personally think the DSM should include recurring events that happen at regular intervals, like elections, as part of SAD. Since we're constantly bombarded with ads every election season, there's almost no escaping it, especially when you feel like your vote doesn't matter and the candidate with the most money wins. The past few elections, the candidates I supported either lost or failed to live up to their promises.
Edit: I have Major Depressive Disorder, but it's worse during election seasons.
This was such a helpful video - thank you Kati!
I've been wondering for a while if I suffer with SAD, I'm not so sure after watching this - it seems to be more of an all year round up and down thing as opposed to just seasonal. I'll be sure to look more in to it.
:) xx
#KatiFAQ
Hi Kati, just wondering what the best approach when work is affecting our recovery or triggering?
I work in the fitness industry, I love what I do how ever I find it triggers my ED. My ED voice loves hearing fro people how much weight i have lost and how good i am looking. My logical voice get really upset when people tell me i am their inspiration or that I should stick with what i am doing coz it is working. Obviously i can not just give up my job but are there any good coping skills i can use in situation where i can not control what people are saying to me?
thanks
Vitamins make a huge difference.. Vitamin D
Hi for the past six or seven months I have been feeling very depressed. I'm very secretive about this so much I'm not even using my main account for this comment. I can't tell my parents grandparents or anybody at all. Also I feel like I want to get help but I feel like i just want to stay the way i am at the same time. I just relly feel like I need some help dealing with it. Thanks.
hey Kati, I think I have anxiety and panic attacks and want to see someone about it but get it gets me nervous. What do I say? I forget what it feels likes to have a panic the next day when it's time to talk about it. How did it start and build up? and I just get really nervous what if it's not anxiety? And I don't want my parents or friends knowing I'm seeing a therapist cause I don't want them to think it's because of attention I really think whats going on is a problem
i dont have SAD but i know someone who does, what can i do to help them feel a little better
Convince them to go get medical advice from their doctor or GP and get either CBT light therapy (which is the most effective in my opinion) or drug therapy. :) also introduce them to a TH-camr called RomanAtwood and he'll put a smile on anyone's face. Smile more
My doctor doesn't believe in antidepressants
#KatiFAQ ....Thank you so much for your videos, Kati! :) I have a couple possible video ideas for the future. 1) Postpartum Depression 2) Complex PTSD
Thanks again for all you do and your sincere support of complete strangers!
Kati I go threw this almost every summer because it's not my thing I hate summer because it's depressing that I don't get to travel or the heat is too overwhelming for me Im more of a winter person I wish I lived in Russia im real serious summer irritates my skin like crazy the sun and the heatness I need the snow on me I wish I wasn't like this but I can't help it!
***** sorry for the late response well I had this problem since I was a kid so unfortunately I can't tan or else I end up consuming the who healing cream lol I try not to hate the sun but it just gives me the dam rash and especially living in New York it's boring in the summer the beaches are nasty and dirty here nothing exotic I need a vacation btw thanx for the compliment :-)
***** hey goodmorning I was asleep well at least PA have all sorts of nice places like hershey park dorney and the pocanoes and btw I had to edited my pictures with a touch of a tan color in real I look pale :( I use sunscreen or sun block so I dont end up with rashes and funny thing is that the doctor prescribe me to take vitamin D because of lack of sun lol
This is why I should Move to California or something.
lucky girl! I dream of never-ending warm, sunny days..
what is it called if u don't have it in fall or winter then?
SAD is Seasonal and not just winter and fall... its the same thing.... its just most have it in the fall/winter. Trust me I get it from the spring time.
Could someone with bipolar get seasonal affective disorder?
Hey Kati,
I live on the east coast and we've been getting slammed by the snow. I keep having to cancel my therapy appointments because the of the snow. Anything I can do in the meantime so I don't go batshit? I've been writing but it's not the same or enough :/! thank you! ***** #KatiFAQ
Will do thanks so much! Love the videos! :)
Another great video as always Kati! Thank you for everything you do on here, you're a true inspiration! ❤️
This happens in the summer as well
I wonder how the science works for people who get it during the summer
Thank you for this Kati , I'm still confused with myself though because i get pretty depressed more so of the winter month's like i just find myself crying all the time especially when I'm alone but yet wake up in the middle of the night a few time's and suffer with "Depression symptoms" But yet it only seem's to be in the cold months. What would you say?? i have nothing to be sad about i have a great life but yet sometimes it can be hard when I'm alone.
Thanks Kati :) xoxo
Winter used to not affect me so much before I had situational depression. But after I began having situational depression (that has a cause that isn't even related to the weather), for the past 2 years I have had anhedonia in the winter. And the contrast between those anhedonic and non-anhedonic depression times is brutal. The cold months here are about a month after the December holidays, and that icy weather paired with the end of uplifting decorations, the end of good times with family members due to long distance, the return to school/work and little to no warmth and sunlight hits me like a sack of bricks every year 😂. But I will keep on soaking in whatever ounce of sunlight I can grab, playing with other people's dogs, and eating lots of oranges--cause those simple things make winter so much more livable for me! ❤
So many times I read or hear about something I'm like: Oh yeah, I have that.
I seem to have SAD, I definitely have PMS, I (did) struggle with depression and selfharm and I have a sleeping disorder. But I never go see a doctor, because all the symptoms appear and disappear (PMS only like 12 days a month, SAD only in winter (I'm sooo happy right now because spring startet) and also my sleeping problems are sometime worse and sometimes better.) Maybe I should go to a doctor to work stuff out. But I live in a small town and we don't have that many therapists, so if see one, I get the appointment that somebody else might need more.
What if I'm 13 and very awkward to talk about my feelings and afraid to be told wrong incase I DONT have S.A.D. Which my mother said I might have and I think I have? I don't want anyone to know if I do because I hate being the center of attention. And is another symptom losing interest in things you used to like to do and push your friends away and locking yourself in a dark room and never leave?
That's what the internet for :) ( or is used for )
It took 26 years, yeah! 26 long years to know ,what is actually wrong with me,I realized first time that something is wrong with me when I was 15 years old...........now I am 30, untreated, uncured.....my life is disaster, I have no career, no skill, no accomplishments, no name, no joy, no money, no girlfriend.....but I am still fighting, each and every moment I'm fighting with my innerself......I know I will win this battel.
Hello as a new subscriber i have a question. I have beenin therapy for two years now for trauma abuse and ptsd. The ptsd has effected my life to the point where i cant work full time. After two years my therapist is working on edmt (might ofspelled it incirrectly)With me. Do you have any vids on youtube on this therapy? And in your opinion does it work? Does the ptsd ever get better? I have had a trauma therapist a regular therapist and a psychilogist. I sometimes get impatient. What is your reaction tothis?
Kati I'm trying to register on your website but my activation email isn't coming through… tried twice and checked my junk inbox just in case and I got nothing :(
I always get sad in the winter, and having a miscarriage in the summer and husband always working I've noticed I'm not the same, nothing motivates me:/, I'm not depressed I get excited going out and playing with my kids but I can't seem to get motivated for nothing regarding things with me, like I don't feel like doing nothing for me. Ahhhh I don't know
Wow, this was so informative! Thank you for sending me the link to this video, Kati! I am SO relieved to learn that SAD can cause appetite changes and weight gain, because I swear, all I want to do is eat! Which is really frustrating, since I'm about 100 pounds overweight and am trying hard to eat nutritious, healthy foods and exercise! SAD and living in a dark, cloudy, gloomy climate really thwart my weight loss endeavors. But, I won't give up!
Can someone have both winter and spring/summer SAD? On November, February and April/May I feel very depressed. I wonder if it's possible.
#katifaq is there a certain amount of time you have to be manic/ depressed to be diagnosed with bipolar disorder? I think I have bipolar disorder (have not been professionally diagnosed yet). I can go from manic to depressed within minutes is that normal. Thanks.
I have a concern about stalking a therapist via social media and being close to the places where she is usually there. I know this is not a right behavior and I felt guilty about now, but how can I make sure to not go to it again and wether or not should I tell the therapist about it ? #katifaq
#katifaq what is the difference between major depressive disorder and depression? Is there ven a difference? Thanks.
Can you have SAD and major depression?
Also I was wondering, why do I still struggle so much with my major depression when I'm on the right medication, been without a pyciatrist/psychologist/dietitian and hospital for over 6 months?
Basically, is life going to always to suck if you have mental illness?
This happens to me every year. As follows:
January: "Horray! Clean slate! What would I like to do? Kinda not much worth doing outside. Got these inside projects..."
February: "Achk! Why can't I sleep? No matter. Projects..."
March: "I'm feeling really blue. Wanna do prrojects, but can't concentrate. Sleep all the time now. Why is everyone so crappy?"
April: "Can't do projects. Life is horrible1 I feel like I'm dying inside! My soul is disappearing1 Can't stand everyone, and the constant noise of their bickering! Gotta find a hiding place. Nope, back hurts there. I was feeling fine earlier! Why now? Maybe some more sun will help. Why does April always suck??? If that fly buzzes past me ONE MORE TIME, I'm gonna spray this living room till you can't live in it for a year!!! If men with tanks show up at the door...I don't even care anymore."
May: "Things are still kinda blah. But at least I can concentrate again. Sort of."
June: "Work work work work work..."
July: "I feel on top of the world!!!"
August: "Ragweed season is coming. Days already getting shorter. Walls closing in. Work. Hide from it. Stockpile the antihistamines. You can make it through this. Welcome to the family camper. Your iron lung for the next month or so. It isn't *quite* solitary confinement. And at least you get to play video games."
September: "Ragweed season won't last forever. I'll survive this. Nice Back to School sale. Projects..."
October: "The days are too short! It's too cold too fast! Halloween season used to be special? Why is it so blah to me now? I'm being gyped and I don't even know why!"
November: "Oh sure. Another Thanksgiving. Who broke what food tray this time? It's dark. Too dark. All this pre-Christmas stress! Wish they'd just stop yelling at each other! I can't hear myself think through all the noise!"
December: 'Walls are closing in. Gotta wrap up what I can on projects. Christmas...that happened way too fast. Blink, and I would've missed it. The joy of sparkling grape juice just doesn't last. Another car window scraper? I don't even have a car! New Year's. They didn't get me shrimp? Blasphemy! Ball drops, yadda yadda yadda..."
===========
Seasonal affective, or would you say some other issue(s)? I was diagnosed as Aspergers in 1997, but I'm pretty sure that isn't the whole story. I'm moody and insecure and irriitable all year round. It just manifests itself a litttle differently each month. The above are generalizations of my moods, and specifics can be altered by specific life events.
I always feel depressed around fall all through spring because I hate winter. I am somewhat happy as long I keep myself busy but how do I know I may have SAD?
***** #faq Is a child who is constantly picking scabs more prone to SH? Scabs that have been repeatedly picked at for months.. Thank you for all your videos.
My mother also deals with SAD. Not sure about my grandmother, but I'm guessing she might have it, too, since dementia and various mental disorders have been known to run on that side of my family.
I experience exactly these symptoms every year. But I have them in the summer and not in the winter. Every year since I was about 22 years old I have become horribly depressed every late May/early June with severe irritability, massive fatigue and lethargy, crying spells and a body that aches so bad I can barely drag myself to work in the morning. I despise the heat and the bright sunlight and these things actually become physically painful for me. I am positive I am suffering from some kind of SAD variant but I have only found suggestions for people who have it in the winter. What is recommended for people who have SAD in the summer?
Never been diagnosed with this but the moment the days get shorter and the sky turns grey I am suicidal can't get out of bed. Crying uncontrollably. And just in a really bad way and when spring comes I am elated all the time and so excitable.
There are a few people i see who have commented on the cold being a key factor in their SADs. I believe this to be much more of a factor for myself than the light because for the last 2 years I've worked a shift from 3pm-8pm where i am indoors with no windows so would not really notice the change in daylight hours. By the time i get off work with the exception of a few months its dark regardless. I do have a daylight and its great but whats noticeable to me is that the winter days when its +10 and raining i actually feel better than when its -4 and sunny. And last year we had a warmer than usual winter and I was fine. This year i can't seem to get out of my own way with temperature as low as -23 so far. Can your body's inability to retain heat also reduce melatonin and serotonin levels? Or is there another level I should be checking for. FYI I've had my thyroid checked and its working perfectly.
I live in FL and have always gotten so depressed over summer. I hate heat and humidity. Lived in ND for a year and loved every minute of it. Hopefully I can move out there permanently in the future. Give me cold and snow any day.
Getting a light box hope it helps, feel terrible. Rain and too dark, its bad in UK now, literally no sunlight 😪
Yes! My college transition has made more difficult I've made the move from California to north of Seattle... it definitely feels like winter is a hibernation period here that doesn't seem to happen in the Bay Area. Thank you for this video, I appreciate the tips.
I read something today about how seasonal changes can affect the moods of someone with Bipolar Disorder. Is this true? I was reading up about it because I've noticed a pattern in my mood changes in specific seasons - Summer I am more inclined to mixed episodes (which I'm experiencing right now), Spring is more manic and Winter is depression. Just wondering what your thoughts are on that?
Any suggestions for a shift worker? (not all night shifts, some days too; it switches back and forth!) I feel like this is definitely messing with my circadian rhythm and natural melatonin levels.
Would the melatonin levels increase from the lack of sunlight and that is the cause of the decreased energy levels, due to too much melatonin causing us to want to go to bed?
I feel like I have a sleeping disorder but I don't know what it is. It takes me hours to get to sleep and I can rarely stay asleep. It means I miss a lot of school and I'm falling behind in the majority of my subjects. I also over sleep or under sleep. I can't remember the last time I had a good nights sleep. I also get sad in winter. I don't have insomnia. I get anxiety attacks and I'm constantly paranoid. I don't really know what to do but a friend of mine sent me a link to your page, so I just need some kind of identification on why I'm like this and how it can stop. Sorry for the huge ramble paragraph. Thanks x
Is SAD a type of depression? So it is depression but it’s a branch of depression?
During Autumn and Winter, I feel very still. I have been like that for awhile especially because I am in a dorm room with linoleum floors, fluorescent light and practically little to no heating during these months, and it is coming, on top of that I have PMDD, I wish I can just catch a break. :(
Thank you Kati, this winter has been the worst. I really thought I was going crazy. This video put me at ease. Thank you. You hit right on everything I've been feeling. I also just watched your video on aging and depression. I'm 49. I've been snapping in anger and I felt so much better when you talked about that. I thought I was the only one. You're so sweet to offer these videos to us for free. You'll never know how much we appreciate them. You will be blessed. Lots of love.