When the Light Fades: Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

2025-10-24

As the days grow shorter and the light begins to fade, many of us feel our energy dip and our motivation wane. But for some, that seasonal slump can turn into Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD. In this episode of Divergently Psyched, Dr. Katie Stahler explores what SAD is, why it happens, and how to work withyour biology to navigate it. You’ll learn: What distinguishes SAD from the “winter blues” The fascinating evolutionary purpose behind seasonal slowdown How light, circadian rhyth...

As the days grow shorter and the light begins to fade, many of us feel our energy dip and our motivation wane. But for some, that seasonal slump can turn into Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD.

In this episode of Divergently Psyched, Dr. Katie Stahler explores what SAD is, why it happens, and how to work withyour biology to navigate it. You’ll learn:

What distinguishes SAD from the “winter blues”
The fascinating evolutionary purpose behind seasonal slowdown
How light, circadian rhythms, and brain chemistry affect mood
Practical ways to support your mind and body through darker months
When to seek treatment — and what help can look like

Because our biology is ancient, but our awareness is new. Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder reminds us that we’re part of nature — not separate from it. Slowing down isn’t weakness; sometimes, it’s wisdom.

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