Given all that s happened this year a global pandemic, an overwhelming response to racial injustice, a stressful election, postponed weddings, job insecurity, loss of loved ones it s completely understandable to be sad. In fact, it s important to acknowledge all of your feelings so that you don t fall into a cycle of toxic positivity. However, if you notice a persistent feeling that s hindering your ability to live your day-to-day life, you re likely experiencing SAD.
Before you take any action, know you re not alone. Millions of American adults suffer from seasonal affective disorder, and many might not even know they have the condition, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Those living in states where there are less hours of daylight in the winter may experience SAD more often. But here s the good news: It s linked to changes in the seasons, which means the symptoms typically aren t permanent. In the meantime, there are ways to treat it.