Symptoms of Seasonal affective disorder

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SAD can be a disabling illness. Without treatment, people with SAD can find it difficult to live a normal life. Sub-syndromal SAD or 'winter blues' is a milder condition, but it can still have a major effect on how people feel and act.

Symptoms of SAD include:

Sleep problems such as disturbed sleep at night, sleeping for longer, and feeling sleeping during the day;
Feeling tired and lacking in energy;
Increased appetite, particularly craving carbohydrates and sweet foods, and weight gain;
Feeling generally low and having mood swings;
Not feeling sociable or wanting to go out with your friends;
Decreased sex drive;
Difficulty concentrating; and
Loss of interest in work and hobbies that you previously found enjoyable.

People with severe symptoms of SAD may also have:

Feelings of depression, hopelessness, or despair; and
Stress and anxiety.

A small number of people also experience a short period of hyperactivity in the spring.