FACTS AND FIGURES
Learn about statistics, trends, and other relevant insights for behavioral health practitioners working to reduce health disparities and improve outcomes for people in underserved communities.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Each year, approximately 5 percent of the U.S population experiences Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), also known as Seasonal Depression or “The Winter Blues”. Symptoms of SAD include depression,
anxiety, mood changes, sleep problems, overeating and lethargy. The current COVID-19 pandemic can cause increased feelings of fear and anxiety for those experiencing SAD, leading to increased
symptoms of stress. Increased stress can lead to increases in alcohol and substance use/abuse. Minority populations often have limited access to prevention, treatment, and recovery services for
substance use and mental health disorders.
To Learn more about Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) as well as guidance, treatment and prevention tools please visit the
National Institute of Mental Health website.
