Have you ever been depressed during the winter months? If so, you might be experiencing Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a type of depression that is related to the change in the seasons. 

The symptoms tend to occur in the fall, including low energy and mood swings. Often people who experience SAD develop a more serious case of depression in  spring and summer. 

“During the winter time I get very upset and moody,” said a senior female who wished to remain anonymous .

Some people get lonely due to the fact that  they have no real escape seeing outside activities are limited. 

 At the end of the calendar year, approaching the winter solstice, the amount of sunlight is also limited.  

“I need sun and warmth to be happy,” another senior girl said. 

 While there isn’t a way to prevent SAD, there are some  treatments, such as light therapy, medication and psychotherapy. 

Not everyone who feels down during the winter season has SAD, although here are some suggestions to boost your mood. 

Experts advise to bake, play outside, talk with friends and spend some quality time with  family.  They say the best thing to do while feeling down is to get up and look for a reason to keep going, find new ways to motivate.

However, severe depression could also be a sign of a mental illness and should be treated by a healthcare professional.