Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) Test

The Seasonal Affective Disorder Test is a screening tool that helps identify if your mood changes follow a seasonal pattern.

SAD is a type of depression that occurs at specific times of the year, most commonly during fall and winter months when daylight hours are shorter.

By answering 8 simple questions, you can understand whether you may be experiencing seasonal mood changes.

Show Details

What is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)?

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that's related to changes in seasons. SAD begins and ends at about the same times every year. If you're like most people with SAD, your symptoms start in the fall and continue into the winter months, sapping your energy and making you feel moody.

Less often, SAD causes depression in the spring or early summer. Treatment for SAD may include light therapy (phototherapy), medications, and psychotherapy. Don't brush off that yearly feeling as simply a case of the 'winter blues' or a seasonal funk that you have to tough out on your own.

Common Symptoms of Winter-Pattern SAD

Feeling depressed most of the day, nearly every day
Losing interest in activities you once enjoyed
Having low energy and feeling sluggish
Having problems with sleeping (oversleeping)
Craving carbohydrates and gaining weight
Feeling hopeless or worthless
Having difficulty concentrating
Social withdrawal (hibernating)

Evidence-Based Treatments for SAD

Light Therapy: Daily exposure to bright light (10,000 lux) for 20-30 minutes, typically in the morning
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps identify and change negative thought patterns
Medication: Antidepressants, particularly bupropion XL, may be prescribed
Vitamin D Supplementation: May help if vitamin D levels are low
Dawn Simulators: Devices that gradually increase light in the morning

Self-Help Strategies

Get outside during daylight hours, even on cloudy days
Exercise regularly - 30 minutes a day can boost mood
Let light into your home and workspace
Maintain a regular sleep schedule
Stay connected with friends and family
Practice stress management techniques
Consider a vacation to a sunny location in winter

Important Note: This test is for reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have severe symptoms, please consult a healthcare professional.

References

Rosenthal, N. E., et al. (1984). Seasonal affective disorder: A description of the syndrome and preliminary findings with light therapy. Archives of General Psychiatry, 41(1), 72-80. 10.1001/archpsyc.1984.01790120076010
American Psychiatric Association. (2022). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed., text rev.).
National Institute of Mental Health. (2023). Seasonal Affective Disorder. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/seasonal-affective-disorder

Learn More

PHQ-9 Depression Screening

Featured

Detects depression severity using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 assessment tool.

Start

BDI-II Beck Depression Inventory

Featured

The BDI-II is one of the most widely used psychological tests for measuring depression severity. 21 questions assessing depressive symptoms.

Start

GAD-7 Anxiety Screening

Featured

Detects generalized anxiety disorder using this validated clinical assessment tool.

Start