Many people notice changes in their motivation, mood, and energy levels as the temperature drops and days grow shorter. In fact, you may want to say indoors more than usual, feel more tired, or crave comfort foods. And for aging adults, this can also induce more isolation, which can foster sadness and anxiety.

So how do you know if what you’re experiencing is simply the winter blues or something more serious like Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)? Understanding the difference between winter blues vs. SAD can help you decide when simple lifestyle changes are enough and when it may be time to seek professional support.

What Are the Winter Blues?

The winter blues are a common, mild response to seasonal changes. They’re not a medical diagnosis, but rather a temporary dip in energy or mood that many people experience during darker, colder months.

Common signs of the winter blues include:

• Mild irritability
• Less interest in social activities
• Wanting to sleep more
• Craving carbohydrates or comfort foods
• Lower energy levels
• Feeling a little down or unmotivated

While these symptoms can be frustrating, they usually don’t interfere significantly with daily life. People with the winter blues are generally still able to work, maintain relationships, and enjoy activities, even if they feel a bit off.

The good news? The winter blues often improve with simple changes like getting more daylight, staying active, or planning things to look forward to.

What Is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)?

Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, is a form of clinical depression that follows a seasonal pattern. It most commonly appears in fall or winter and easing in spring or summer. Unlike the winter blues, SAD is more intense and persistent, and it can significantly affect a person’s ability to function.

Symptoms of SAD may include:

• Withdrawing from friends and family
• Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
• Noticeable changes in appetite or weight
• Oversleeping or insomnia
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Significant fatigue or low energy nearly every day
• Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed
• Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness

In severe cases, SAD may include thoughts of self-harm or suicide, which require immediate professional help.

Winter Blues vs. SAD: Key Differences to Watch For

If you’re trying to figure out whether you’re dealing with winter blues vs SAD, the below distinctions can help.

  Severity
Winter blues is generally mild to moderate mood changes whereas SAD is deep, ongoing depression.

  Duration
The winter blues come and go and improve with lifestyle adjustments. But SAD last most of the day, nearly every day, for weeks or months.

  Impact on Daily Life
In most cases, with the winter blues you can still function, even if you’re less enthusiastic. On the other hand, SAD makes self-care, relationships, and work feel overwhelming.

  Response to Change
Winter blues typically improve with routine, sunlight, and exercise. Conversely, SAD often require structured treatment such as medication, light therapy, or counseling.

You know your aging loved ones mood better than other people, and know what’s normal and what’s not normal. As such, listen to your instincts to zone in on changes in their disposition. Plus, use the following tips to help you decide when it’s time to contact their doctor.

When to Seek Help

If you’re unsure whether your elderly loved one is experiencing winter blues vs. SAD, trust your instincts. Consider reaching out to a healthcare provider if symptoms last more than two weeks or their mood continues to worsen. Also watch for unmanageable daily tasks or if they seem emotionally thumb or hopeless.

Senior Emotional Support From Seaside Senior Services

As your loved one’s health needs and moods change, your Seaside Senior Services caregivers will be by your side. We can offer companionship, personal care such as grooming and bathing. Our services also include medication reminders to help seniors stay on track with supplements and prescriptions.

By keeping your Seaside Senior Services team up to date with your loved one’s needs, we can customize their care plan to support you in the ways you need it most, including respite care. Contact us today to get started.

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