With decreasing sunlight and temperatures, many people across Central Illinois are feeling the symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD.

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - With the end of Daylight Saving Time, many people in Central Illinois are driving home from work in darkness. With decreasing sunlight and temperatures, many people are feeling the symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD. 

"Seasonal affective disorder is a pattern of mood changes that people experience usually in two different seasons," said Barbara Wheatley, lead clinician for the Memorial Behavioral Health mobile crisis response team. "There are significant mood changes for the seasonal affective disorder pattern that happens in the winter." 
 
Wheatley explained that SAD symptoms include a persistent sad feeling, irritability, loss of interest in hobbies, fatigue and changes in appetite. While most mammals hibernate, humans don't. Wheatley said SAD is tied to survival instincts to work less and hibernate when temperatures drop. 
 
SAD can increase symptoms associated with depression or anxiety. Even if you aren't diagnosed with SAD, there are ways to combat the winter blues that can kick in as we lose sunlight. A good way to help your body feel better is by going outside. 
 
"Sunlight actually provides us with a wonderful resource called vitamin D," Wheatley said. "Vitamin D in the body helps with mood regulation. Yes, we can take it as an external supplement, but we get a good portion from different things in our environment." 
 
She also encourages people to schedule out exciting events or weekly gatherings to give them a reason to leave the house and feel motivated. Picking up a new hobby to keep you entertained through the winter can also help combat SAD. 
 
If you've noticed persistent symptoms for more than two weeks, you should reach out to your doctor. They can determine if you have SAD and the best ways to treat it. 
 
If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, you can call or text 988, the National Suicide and Crisis Line. 
 
Copyright 2025. WAND TV. All rights reserved.