We’re now in the season of the sun rising later in the day and setting earlier, and some of us might be feeling a little more blue with the change. 

Experts say Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, is a type of depression characterized by a recurrent seasonal pattern. That means people with SAD have symptoms of depression and sadness that typically last about 4 to 5 months within the year.

Brittany Derry, director of Crisis Center and Clubhouse Programs at Best Self Behavioral Health, says symptoms include fatigue and social isolation. Those with SAD most commonly have symptoms in the fall and winter months, typically starting around when Daylight Saving Time ends and the most severe time is in January or February, but Derry says it’s not just dedicated to winter, it could also happen in the summer. She says some SAD symptoms in the summer are a lack of appetite or an increase in irritability. She suggests people be on the lookout for symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder as it can happen to anyone.

"Some people are more susceptible," Derry explained. "So some people who have lower levels of serotonin are often more susceptible to being diagnosed. [It's] so sad because serotonin is that that mood regularly is a mood regulator. Right. So if you have lower serotonin levels, you're more apt to experience the sadness."

For some, treatment includes antidepressants or Vitamin D, or talk therapy, and for others, light therapy, getting into bright lights helps promote happiness. It all depends on the severity of your symptoms.