December is SAD Awareness Month
Posted on Dec 04, 2025 at 16:35 PM
December is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on the unique challenges these colder months can bring to many people.
SAD is a type of depression characterized by a recurrent seasonal pattern, with symptoms lasting about 4−5 months out of the year. Symptoms and warning signs can include:
- Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood most of the day, nearly every day, for at least 2 weeks
- Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
- Feelings of irritability, frustration, or restlessness
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
- Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities
- Decreased energy, fatigue, or feeling slowed down
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
- Changes in sleep or appetite or unplanned weight changes
- Physical aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems that do not have a clear physical cause and do not go away with treatment
- Thoughts of death or suicide or suicide attempts
- Oversleeping (hypersomnia)
- Overeating, particularly with a craving for carbohydrates, leading to weight gain
- Social withdrawal (feeling like “hibernating”)
If you are experiencing SAD symptoms, you are not alone and help is available. Call us at 706-596-5500 to learn more.
The 988 Suicide and Crisis Hotline is available anywhere in the U.S. 24/7 via call or text.
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