Scientists talked about the difference between seasonal depression and winter blues

Some people experience "winter blues" in winter, which manifests itself in depression due to the short daylight hours, the desire to go to bed earlier, and difficulty waking up in the dark. However, this differs from seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a form of depression that has a pronounced seasonal pattern. This was reported by Medical Xpress magazine.

SAR is most often manifested in winter. The disorder often develops at the beginning of 20 years of age, and as you get older, the risk decreases. It is noted that it can also occur in adolescents. According to the publication, young women are more likely to be diagnosed, but men may have more severe symptoms. The high-risk group includes people with a family history of SAD and those who live in northern latitudes with short winter daylight hours.

With seasonal affective disorder, a person may avoid socializing, lose interest in their usual activities, experience problems with sleep and appetite, or, on the contrary, reach for "comfortable" food — simple carbohydrates: pasta, bread, sweets. This can lead to fatigue and weight gain. In the spring-summer form, anxiety, irritability and insomnia are more often expressed.

The exact cause of SAD has not yet been established, but studies indicate a violation of circadian rhythms — the natural cycle of sleep and wakefulness. Reducing daylight hours can "knock down" the body's internal clock and provoke depression. Sunlight is known to affect the production of melatonin and serotonin. In winter, the body produces more melatonin, less serotonin.

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SAR is diagnosed if a person meets the criteria for depression and the seasonal pattern of symptoms has been observed for at least two years. The doctor conducts a medical examination to rule out other causes, and may use questionnaires to assess mood and seasonal patterns.

Effective treatment methods include increased exposure to light — more time outside, open curtains, light therapy, or a "dawn simulator" that gradually turns on the light in the bedroom. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and even a trip to a sunny region in the middle of winter also help. If these measures are insufficient, medications may be prescribed.

NLP psychologist and trainer Daria Sukhanova spoke in November about the differences between seasonal melancholy and clinical depression. She stressed that depression is a more serious condition that affects all areas of life, affecting sleep, appetite, concentration and physical condition. According to the specialist, unlike the blues, clinical depression does not go away on its own and requires professional diagnosis and treatment.

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