The ADHD and Seasonal Affective Disorder Link

Did you know that 30% of individuals with ADHD will have a depressive episode at some point? If you have ADHD, your chances of developing depression is four times greater than it is for those people without ADHD. But how do you know if you’re dealing with major depression or seasonal affective disorder?

In this article, we’ll take a look at the ADHD and depression connection, and then we’ll zero in on the signs of seasonal affective disorder.

ADHD and Depression

In this video, Roberto Olivardia, Ph.D. explains why individuals with ADHD are more likely to experience depressive episodes.

ADHD and Seasonal Affective Disorder

There are many types of depression including major depression, seasonal affective disorder, and postpartum depression. Because fall is just around the corner, let’s focus on seasonal affective disorder.

Seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, is a type of depression that is related to the change in seasons — typically the shift from summer into fall.

You can learn more about SAD by watching the video below:

6 Signs of Seasonal Affective Disorder

Many mental health conditions share the same symptoms, so it’s important to receive an accurate diagnosis before embarking on any treatment plan. Here at Next Step 4 ADHD, our multidisciplinary team excels at diagnosing and treating co-occurring disorders.

You might suspect you have SAD if you:

• Feel sad
• Notice changes in your sleeping and eating patterns
• Have lost interest in your favorite hobbies
• Feel more intensely sad with the changing of the seasons
• Feel guilty
• Feel worthless
• Suicidal thoughts

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a national network of local crisis centers that provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 

Their number is 1-800-273-8255.

Treating SAD and ADHD

The good news is that the right treatment can help you feel better. SAD is often treated with lifestyle modifications (exercise, sleep hygiene, spending time outside), therapy, and medication.

Don’t brush off these symptoms. If you’re struggling with feelings of sadness, and you suspect that you might have ADHD and SAD, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. You can reach our Louisville, Kentucky office at 502-907-5908. You can also request an appointment online.