Why We're Vulnerable to Seasonal Depression During the Winter

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that's related to changes in seasons.

If you're like most people with SAD, your symptoms start in the fall and continue into the winter months, sapping your energy and making you feel moody.

Don't ignore that feeling as simply a case of the "winter blues" or a seasonal funk that you have to tough out on your own. Take steps to keep your mood and motivation steady throughout the year. Treatment for SAD may include light therapy (phototherapy), medications and psychotherapy.

In addition to the stress and pressure of the holidays, some people experience feelings of sadness or loneliness associated with the holiday season. Both of these make us more vulnerable to depression during this time of the year.

Jaime Angelini, Director of Consumer Affairs for the Mental Health Association, discusses what we can do and how MHAAC can help.