If you feel particularly depressed and lethargic as autumn deepens, it may not simply be a matter of mood, but could be Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
Seasonal affective disorder is characterized by depression, increased appetite and weight gain, and fatigue that does not go away even with more sleep than usual during the autumn and winter seasons when the days get shorter, and it is known to be 4 to 5 times more common in women than in men.
The cause is explained as being related to serotonin and melatonin imbalances caused by reduced daylight hours, as well as vitamin D deficiency. If these symptoms persist for more than two weeks and recur in the same season for more than two years, it is advisable to seek medical attention.
If symptoms are mild, managing your lifestyle can be helpful. It is recommended to get frequent sunlight during the day, exercise regularly, and maintain regular sleep and a balanced diet.
However, if the symptoms are severe enough to interfere with daily life, it is necessary to receive an accurate diagnosis from a psychiatrist and consult about appropriate treatments such as phototherapy, medication, or cognitive behavioral therapy.
Source: Health Kyunghyang Depression that returns every autumn… 'Seasonal Affective Disorder' Advisory
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