Is it Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) or is it Capitalism?

Or is it both?

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that typically occurs during specific seasons, most often in the fall and winter when daylight hours are shorter. It can cause symptoms such as:

• Persistent sadness or low mood

• Loss of interest in activities

• Changes in appetite or weight

• Difficulty concentrating

• Sleep disturbances

• Fatigue

Depression can be a lonely experience, but there is strength in community. Sometimes, simply sharing with someone, them knowing how we’re feeling can help.

As many of you know, I was born in a tropical country, so I love the warm weather and tropical thunderstorms.

When I moved to Canada, the cold weather felt unbearable. Yet I thought I was handling it well. I wore warm clothes in the fall and winter and drank warm beverages, but SAD caught up with me.

I realized I felt low and sad in the winter of 2008. I remember feeling tired, losing interest in activities outside of work and school, and sometimes not leaving the house. I thought my behaviour was normal. At the time, I was in school full-time and worked two jobs; no wonder I was tired.

I felt relieved when I realized I was impacted by the long, dark, and rainy days in the fall and winter.

Oh, there's a reason that I am feeling awful!

Yes, capitalism is in play, too.

In Chinese culture, winter is the time to slow down and conserve energy. However, most people need to work and have other life demands, which can add stress to their daily lives. Hence, imagine stress plus lousy cold weather; no wonder some of us have SAD.

What helped me?

• I started taking Vitamin D.

• I slowed down in the winter. I did less, but I also ensured I walked daily.

• I talked to my therapist.

• I proactively planned my day from October to the end of February.

• I signed up for online classes and book clubs, so I have a community.

• I would make plans with friends to have coffee or a meal regularly.

• I bought a light therapy lamp, and I turned it on every morning when I had breakfast.

Whether these choices are placebos or worked doesn't matter. I found that my mood improved as I allowed myself to slow down, rest, and do less during those months.

Treatment options often include:

• Light Therapy: Exposure to bright light that mimics natural sunlight can help regulate mood.

• Psychotherapy: Book in with your therapist regularly.

• Medication: Antidepressants may be prescribed in more severe cases. Please talk to your healthcare practitioner.

• Lifestyle Changes: Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and spending time outdoors can also improve symptoms.

What can you do?

• Be proactive. Have some plans that will get you out of your house.

• Talk to your friends and ask for support.

• Plan some activities that you enjoy.

• Take up a hobby.

• Allow yourself to rest and hibernate.

• Stay active, go for walks, go to nature.

• Talk to your therapist regularly.

If you or someone you know is struggling with SAD, please seek professional help.