top of page

SAD- Seasonal Affective Disorder

Sara Clement

It's normal to have some days when you feel down. But, if you feel down for days at a time and you can't get motivated to do activities you normally enjoy, it's time to ask for support. This is especially important if your sleep patterns and appetite have changed, you are turning to substances or alcohol for comfort or relaxation, or you feel hopeless or are experiencing suicidal ideation. Please, take signs and symptoms of seasonal affective disorder seriously. SAD can get worse and may lead to problems, such as social withdrawal, inability to function in day-to-day life, substance misuse, eating disorders, increased anxiety and suicidal thoughts and behaviors, if not treated.


Signs and symptoms of SAD may include:

* Having low energy and feeling sluggish

* Losing interest in activities you once enjoyed

* Feeling listless, sad or down most of the day, nearly every day

* Oversleeping

* Carb cravings, overeating, weight gain (Please note: this is very normal for Montana bears and other animals who hibernate. Human's do not hibernate, so this can be problematic.)

*Difficulty concentrating

*Feeling hopeless, worthless or guilty


Please check with your primary care provider if you are experiencing any of these symptoms and be aware that Montanans are at high risk for SAD due to our proximity to the Northern Hemisphere. Most of us do not get enough natural sunlight to produce enough vitamin D, and this can affect our risk of developing SAD.


If you or someone you love are experiencing suicidal thoughts or ideation, please contact the Suicide Hotline at 9-8-8. A trained and caring professional is standing by to support you 24-7 and will be able to ensure you are given access to the help you need. Remember: You are NOT alone. You are needed. You are wanted. You matter. If you start to fall, we've got you! It's the Western way.



WMMHC Logo White

Western Montana Mental Health Center 
1321 Wyoming St, Missoula, MT  59801
Phone: (406) 532-8400  

Fax: (406) 356-5213 

Email: administration@wmmhc.org

All information submitted on our website is private and confidential.  Your treatment experience is strictly private and confidential, protected by federal and state law.

WMMHC will not deny services due to race, color, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, disability, religion, housing status, or inability to pay.

© 2020-2025 By Western Montana Mental Health Center

bottom of page