Seasonal Affective Disorder

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.

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Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that happens during a change of seasons. SAD usually happens during autumn and winter months when there is less sunlight because the days are shorter. This is called winter-onset depression. Symptoms usually go away in late spring or early summer. Episodes of SAD may be mild or severe.

DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:

• You have thoughts of harming or killing yourself.

Call your doctor if:

• You have new or worsening symptoms, even after treatment.
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Drugs used to treat this and similar conditions

Treatment options

The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

• Wellbutrin XL
• bupropion

Medicines:

You may need any of the following:

• Antidepressants may be given to help improve your mood.
• Beta blockers may be used to prevent your body from producing melatonin. This medicine is only given if symptoms of SAD do not respond to other types of treatment.
• Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.

Manage SAD:

• Be physically active, as directed. Physical activity, such as exercise, can help improve depression and energy levels.
• Eat a variety of healthy foods. Healthy foods include fruits, vegetables, lean meats, fish, whole-grain foods, and low-fat dairy products. Limit sugar and foods that contain simple carbohydrates, such as cookies and cake.
• Create a sleep routine. Sleep is important for emotional health. Ask your healthcare provider how much sleep you should aim to get each night. The amount depends on your age and general health. In general, school-aged children and teenagers need about 9 to 10 hours of sleep a night. Most adults need about 7 to 9 hours of sleep a night. You may need to create a schedule so you are awake during as many daylight hours as possible.
• Increase your exposure to light. Turn on lamps in your home. Go outside several times during the day. Even on cloudy days, you will be in helpful sunlight. If possible, visit areas that get more light than where you live.
• Manage stress. Stress can increase depression and make it harder to sleep.
• Do not drink alcohol or use illegal drugs. Alcohol and drugs can make depression worse. Ask your healthcare provider for more information if you need help quitting.

Follow up with your doctor as directed:

Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Further information

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