Yale University
Dept. of Psychiatry
300 George Street
New Haven, CT
06511 USA

Tel: 203-785-2117

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Research Clinics

Winter Depression Program

What is Winter Depression?

Winter Depression or Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is an illness that affects people's mood and behaviors. The symptoms of SAD usually begin to appear gradually throughout September and October and last through March or April. Research suggests that SAD may affect as many as 11 million people in the United States. Up to four times as many women suffer from SAD as men, and it tends to run in families. Geographic location also plays a role in the likelihood of the occurrence of SAD. Those who live in Canada and the northern United States are up to eight times more likely to suffer from SAD than people living in sunny areas such as Florida and Mexico.

Signs and Symptoms of Winter Depression:

Like all illnesses it is associated with specific symptoms. These symptoms are largely absent in the late spring and summer months:

Depressed Mood and Fatigue:

"I am often sad and down in the dumps...I feel empty...I sometimes feel like crying." Some people additionally experience irritability or nervousness. Depressed patients may also find that when awake, they often feel tired or slowed down.

These symptoms are accompanied by at least some of the following:

carbohydrate cravings, especially for sweets and/or starches
increased appetite and/or weight gain
oversleeping or difficulty awakening in the morning
reduced work productivity
withdrawal from social contacts

For Information or Referral:

We are seeking research volunteers for our free treatment program. If you think you may qualify for the Winter Depression Project please contact us at the the Winter Depression Research Clinic at Yale New Haven Hospital at (203) 785-2617. We urge you not to wait until this season's symptoms have fully set in before applying.

Last modified: March 23, 2004