{
  "id": 18585326,
  "title": "Is shorter daylight dragging down your mood? What to know about seasonal affective disorder",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/06/is-shorter-daylight-dragging-down-your-mood-what-to-know-about",
  "topic": "health",
  "section": "Health & Medicine",
  "published": "2026-11-06T23:00:06.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Medical Xpress",
    "slug": "medical-xpress",
    "url": "https://medicalxpress.com/news/2026-11-shorter-daylight-mood-seasonal-affective.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that follows a seasonal pattern, often occurring during the darker months of winter. An estimated 10% to 20% of Americans may experience mild mood changes during these times, but those whose symptoms significantly disrupt daily life may be suffering from SAD. The condition is characterized by the recurrence of depressive episodes that align with specific seasons, typically lasting four to five months. The exact cause of SAD is unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of factors such as genetics, brain chemistry, and disrupted circadian rhythms. Key symptoms include persistent feelings of low energy, mood changes, and difficulty sleeping or concentrating for at least two weeks. Diagnosis involves ruling out other potential causes and identifying patterns of depressive episodes occurring seasonally for two or more years. Treatment options for SAD include light therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and antidepressant medications. Light therapy involves the use of a 10,000-lux light box or lamp for approximately 20 minutes each morning, which helps to counteract the effects of reduced sunlight on brain chemicals and sleep patterns. CBT focuses on modifying negative thoughts and habits related to the season, while antidepressants such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may be prescribed to help manage symptoms. Early treatment, such as commencing light therapy before the onset of symptoms, can be beneficial in preventing or mitigating the effects of SAD.",
  "summary": "Ever heard of the winter blues? The phrase describes that blah, low-energy feeling that can settle in as days grow shorter, colder and grayer this time of year.",
  "key_points": [
    "Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) follows a seasonal pattern, often in winter.",
    "Approximately 10% to 20% of Americans experience mild mood changes.",
    "Treatment includes light therapy, CBT, and antidepressants."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}