Seasonal Affective Disorder

As we enter into December, host Toby Uecker sits down with Dr. Amy Newstrom, faculty member in the SDSU College of Nursing, to explore the realities of mental health during seasonal transitions. Together, they break down what seasonal affective disorder (SAD) truly is, how it differs from the casual idea of “winter blues,” and why the biological, social, and emotional factors behind it are more complex than many of us realize.   Learning Objectives: After listening to this episode, listeners should be able to: 1. Describe what seasonal affective disorder is and distinguish it from general "winter blues" or mild seasonal mood changes. 2. Recognize common symptoms of depression and seasonal affective disorder. 3. Evaluate practical strategies for interrupting negative mental health spirals.   Processing Questions: 1. What does it mean to be a "curious, non-judgmental observer" of your own mental health? 2. What patterns do you notice in your own wellbeing as the seasons change? 3. How might you practice more kindness toward yourself as you navigate seasonal change?