According to the National Institute of Mental Health, Seasonal Affective Disorder — also known as S.A.D. — is a “type of depression characterized by a recurrent seasonal pattern.”
Phillip Jacob is an English major at UAA and said he was somewhat familiar with the specific form of depression even though he did not know anyone that may suffer symptoms. Jacob said spending time with friends and family, attending therapy sessions and finding hobbies can help improve mental health.
Anne Gutsch is an art major who said she felt S.A.D. does slightly affect her mental health during the winter. Gutsch said she is always tired in the morning as there is no sunlight to wake her up — by evening, she said she is even more tired. “I’m like a plant, I need photosynthesis,” said Gutsch…