Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) During the Holidays

December is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) Awareness Month, arriving at a time when shorter days and holiday pressures can make emotions harder to manage. Reduced daylight, disrupted routines, and expectations around celebration can intensify feelings of sadness, stress, or fatigue for many people.

WHAT IS SAD?

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression related to seasonal changes, typically beginning in late fall and continuing through winter. Reduced daylight can disrupt the body’s internal clock and affect mood-regulating chemicals, leading to symptoms such as:

• Low energy or fatigue
• Changes in sleep and appetite
• Difficulty concentrating
• Persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness

According to the American Psychiatric Association, about 5% of adults experience SAD each year.

WHY THE HOLIDAYS CAN FEEL HARDER

For those already navigating seasonal mood changes, the holidays can intensify symptoms. Financial stress, social expectations, grief, loneliness, and pressure to “feel festive” can all contribute. A NAMI survey found that 64% of people experiencing ongoing mental health challenges notice symptoms worsen during the holidays—highlighting how common these feelings are.

TREATMENT & SUPPORT

SAD is treatable and can make a meaningful difference. Effective approaches may include:

• Psychotherapy, including CBT (Cognitive behavioral therapy)
• Light therapy
• Healthy routines, including consistent sleep, movement, hydration, and time outdoors

ELWYN’S ADULT BEHAVIORAL HEALTH OUTPATIENT SERVICES CAN HELP

Our outpatient program offers evaluations, therapy, and medication management for individuals seeking support. Learn more here: https://www.elwyn.org/services/adult-behavioral-health-services

“Mental Health Therapy can provide safe, supportive, and healing environments to help work through these challenges that emerge during seasonal changes. Our outpatient program is here to provide that support to our community during this time.” 

                                                  - Rachel Oresky-Portner, MA, ATR-BC, LPC, Phoenixville Outpatient Director

IF YOU NEED IMMEDIATE HELP

• Call or text 988
• Philadelphia Mobile Crisis Line: 215-685-6440
• Delaware County Mobile Crisis Line: 855-889-7827