Seasonal Affective Disorder Cuts Deep by Amanda Ridder - City News Group, Inc.

Community Calendar

FEBRUARY
S M T W T F S
01 02 03 04 05 06 07
08 09 10 11 12 13 14
15 16 17 18 19 20 21
22 23 24 25 26 27 28
View Events
Submit Events
directory

Seasonal Affective Disorder Cuts Deep

By Amanda Ridder, Staff Writer
October 30, 2015 at 11:41am. Views: 84

Winter time is encroaching upon us as we adjust to the time change and fall back an hour. This affects more people, psychologically and emotionally than we think, especially for those already suffering from depression and mood disorders. Loma Linda University Health (LLUH) brings this to our attention with detailed information about Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), “a mood disorder characterized by depression related to a certain season of the year – especially winter.” SAD more often affects adults, and more so women than men. "According to the National Mental Health Disorders Association, approximately 10 to 20 percent of the population suffers from mild winter SAD, and nearly five percent suffer from a more severe form of the disorder." Although decreases in sunlight is still under clinical investigation for the cause of SAD, it is still considered to be the reason why many people find it difficult to adjust to the winter season. SAD falls under the category of what many call “winter depression,” in which a person undergoes severe symptoms of depression until summer arrives. SAD, or winter depression, involves uncomfortable and painful symptoms, such as daytime drowsiness, low energy and concentration, increased appetite and weight gain. LLUH informs the public to “always see your health care provider for a diagnosis,” before deciding SAD is what you might have. For treatment, healthcare providers need to determine the factors of the disorder and medical history before moving forward. Treatments often include light therapy (exposure to artificial light), antidepressant medication and cognitive behavioural or interpersonal therapy. Another recommended remedy to ease symptoms of SAD and winter depression is increasing physical activity and spending quality time with loved ones.

Related Articles

Photo Courtesy of: City of San Bernardino

By Jeff Kraus, Contributing Writer

February 10, 2026 at 03:03pm. Views: 461

In the photo are Kim Knaus, Sandra Ibarra, Mayor Helen Tran, Congressman Pete Aguilar, Mario Flores, Treasure Ortiz, and Fred Shorett.
Congressman Aguilar, Mayor Tran, and 5 council members stand shoulder to shoulder inside a police department room, smiling while holding an oversized ceremonial check, for $1,031,000, made out to the City of San Bernardino for a mobile crime prevention program. A police badge emblem as well as U.S. and California flags are displayed on the wall behind them.

Photo Courtesy of: Tumisu

By Margie Miller, Your Realtor, Columnist

February 11, 2026 at 01:43pm. Views: 422

With shifting Real Estate prices, Interest Rates, the rising costs for Insurance and maintenance; today’s housing decision requires a closer look at lifestyle, finances, and long-term goals. Home ownership is a great investment but is it right for you?

Photo Courtesy of: City of Moreno Valley

By Ulises Cabrera, Community Writer

February 10, 2026 at 03:02pm. Views: 539

This month, our iconic “M” on Box Springs Mountain shines in red, black, and green as a visible sign of recognition and respect
Two women writing on a board while in a classroom.

Photo Courtesy of: Gene Valdez

By Vivian Johnson, Community Writer

February 10, 2026 at 03:03pm. Views: 753

South Colton Diversity Committee Chairperson Gene Valdez with Fifth District Supervisor Joe Baca, Jr. at the Agua Mansa Frontier Cemetary in Colton

Photo Courtesy of: Feeding America Riverside San Bernardino

By Rachel Bonilla, Community Writer

February 10, 2026 at 03:03pm. Views: 639

45 years in operation is a wonderful accomplishment for Feeding America Riverside San Bernardino

Photo Courtesy of: Ernesto Castillo

By Barbershop , Contributing Writer

February 10, 2026 at 03:03pm. Views: 704

Apex Precision Barbershop, is slated to open in Moreno Valley this March.
Apex Precision Barbershop located at 24594 Sunnymead Blvd. suite J Moreno Valley, CA 92553

Photo Courtesy of: City of Moreno Valley

By Stella Pierce, Community Writer

February 10, 2026 at 03:03pm. Views: 465

Daddy Daughter Dance, ties and tiaras was a magical night for these fathers and daughters.

Photo Courtesy of: City of Morneo Valley

By William Cortez, Community Writer

February 10, 2026 at 03:03pm. Views: 441

Looking for a job? Moreno Valley has you covered! So, plan ahead and save the date!

Photo Courtesy of: Dr.G (Dr. Luis S González),

By Dr.G (Dr. Luis S González),, Community Writer

February 10, 2026 at 03:03pm. Views: 871

Nestor Garcia, Karina Chavez, Isabel Aguilar, Maria Estrada, Devin Gil, owner; Council Member DrG, Karina Cabrera, Destinay Martin del Campo, Marilu Chavez, and Javier Hernandez all particiated in a week-long celebration of the 28th Anniversary of Sombrero Market

Photo Courtesy of: TME Photography by Titan Mom Elvira

By Titan Mom Elvira, Community Writer

February 10, 2026 at 03:03pm. Views: 525

CSHS Athlete of the Week: Hector Miguel Martinez

Photo Courtesy of: Redlands Conservancy

By Ruby Stephenson, Community Writer

February 10, 2026 at 03:03pm. Views: 450

The image is a flyer for the Asistencia White Elephant Sale, featuring bold red headings with black text listing donation drop-off dates, preview shopping details, and sale dates, alongside information about accepted items and volunteering.

Photo Courtesy of: ChatGPT (AI-generated)

By Jill Henderson, Community Writer

February 10, 2026 at 03:03pm. Views: 777

An illustration generated by AI using ChatGPT shows a dog and its owner at a baseball game, representing the pet-friendly atmosphere of Waggin’ Wednesday.

--> -->