Champaign, IL (CHAMBANA TODAY) – With daylight saving time ending on Sunday, November 2, and the sun setting an hour earlier, mental health professionals are urging awareness of seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a form of depression tied to seasonal changes. Affecting roughly 5% of U.S. adults, SAD is most common in women and typically begins in the fall, peaking during the darker winter months.

“SAD is more than just feeling down—it’s a recurring depression that can seriously impact daily life,” says Erin Wojewodzki, APRN, a nurse practitioner with OSF HealthCare. Symptoms include persistent sadness, guilt, fatigue, carbohydrate cravings, and even suicidal thoughts. The condition is more prevalent in northern states like Alaska, Vermont, and New Hampshire, where sunlight is scarce.

Though the exact cause remains unclear, experts believe reduced sunlight disrupts the body’s biological clock, affecting serotonin and melatonin levels—two hormones critical for mood and sleep. Vitamin D deficiency also plays a role, as sunlight helps the body produce this mood-regulating nutrient.

Diagnosis typically involves a clinical evaluation and a depression screening tool called PHQ-9. Treatment plans vary but often include light therapy, Vitamin D supplements, SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors), and increased outdoor activity. Spending time with loved ones is also encouraged to combat isolation.

“If you’re feeling off, especially as the days get shorter, talk to your health care provider,” Wojewodzki advises. “There are options—both medical and non-medical—that can help you feel better.”

For more information or support, visit the OSF Healthcare website: Behavioral & Mental Health | OSF HealthCare.