Overview
- Clinicians report rising Seasonal Affective Disorder as daylight declines, marked by low mood, low energy, sleep or appetite changes, and loss of interest.
- Diagnosis typically requires symptoms that recur in at least two consecutive winters and remit in spring or summer, according to expert guidance.
- Urban residents face added risk from limited sun exposure due to skyscraper shade and long work hours that bookend daylight, New York clinicians note.
- Evidence-based treatments include bright light therapy—reported to help up to 85% when started early—cognitive behavioral therapy, and SSRIs for more severe cases.
- Practical steps include getting outside or sitting by sunny windows, using a 10,000‑lux light lamp for about 20 minutes each morning, keeping routines, exercising, socializing, and seeking help via resources such as 988, Teenspace, and NYC Health + Hospitals/NYC Care.