With winter coming much earlier than the past several years and the days shorter and more overcast, I have noted an increase in seasonal affective disorder symptoms not only in women but also in men. Several of the patients I treat for SAD start treatment in the fall around September or October 1 and then complete therapy by April or May 1. They then are off the treatment until fall again. The spring and sumer days are longer and sunnier and they do fine. If you feel like some of these symptoms apply to you, discuss them with your health care provider.
Seasonal changes affect everyone differently.
The coming of winter may precipitate a wide range of symptoms. Some individuals do not notice any change in their moods or behavior. At the far end of the spectrum, there are individuals whose entire lives are affected by the coming of winter. The weather and changing seasons drastically affect these individuals to the point where they are unable to concentrate on their work or function well in their daily life. Their patterns of eating and sleeping change so much that they feel like a bear getting ready for hibernation.