Understanding Seasonal Depression: What It Is, Why It Happens and How to Find Support

By SHANDRIA PATTERSON, Alexander JFS Clinical Social Work Intern

Thu, Dec 4, 2025

As the days get shorter and temperatures fall, many people experience an emotional shift they cannot fully explain. Mornings may feel heavier, motivation may drop and everyday tasks may take more effort. While it is easy to attribute these feelings to the stress of a busy season, these changes can be signs of seasonal depression, also known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

SAD is a type of depression that occurs during specific times of the year, most often in the fall and winter. Reduced sunlight can disrupt the body’s natural rhythms and influence mood. For many, this shift is not just a seasonal slump; it is a biologically based change.

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