Daylight Savings Time has come and gone while providing a reminder that our days are going to continue getting shorter and colder. Winter brings holidays, a certain chill in the air, decorations, time with family, and more time spent indoors. For some, the winter can bring feelings of sadness, low energy, increased isolation, and changes to otherwise stable routines. These feelings or changes could possibly indicate a condition known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). As the seasons change, things like time, weather, and even light play a factor in our behavioral health. SAD is more complex than just “the winter blues”. Many experience challenges completing their daily routine, mood changes, and other symptoms similar to depression. If left unchecked, symptoms can escalate risking more severe symptoms. Differentiating between SAD and normal responses to life changes is crucial.  Self-awareness is beneficial in recognizing atypical functioning.  According to the American Psychiatric Association (APA), here are a few symptoms associated with SAD: Feeling sad or having a depressed mood Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed Changes in appetite; usually eating more, craving carbohydrates Change in sleep; usually sleeping too much Loss of energy or increased fatigue despite increased sleep hours Increase in purposeless physical activity (e.g., inability to sit still, pacing, handwringing) or slowed movements or speech (these actions must [...]