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Multiple Choice

Seasonal Affective Disorder occurs during the winter months and is associated with which of the following symptoms?

Seasonal Affective Disorder represents a winter-time depressive pattern tied to reduced daylight. In this seasonal form, people commonly feel unusually tired and sleepy, with low energy and increased need for sleep. The shorter days disrupt circadian rhythms and melatonin regulation, which often leads to hypersomnia and fatigue, along with carb cravings and possible weight gain. Because the core winter presentation centers on daytime sleepiness and low energy, excessive sleepiness best fits the symptom profile. Insomnia would imply trouble sleeping, not more sleep; weight loss is not typical here (weight gain from increased appetite is more common); and hyperactivity is not characteristic of the depressive mood seen in SAD.

Seasonal Affective Disorder represents a winter-time depressive pattern tied to reduced daylight. In this seasonal form, people commonly feel unusually tired and sleepy, with low energy and increased need for sleep. The shorter days disrupt circadian rhythms and melatonin regulation, which often leads to hypersomnia and fatigue, along with carb cravings and possible weight gain. Because the core winter presentation centers on daytime sleepiness and low energy, excessive sleepiness best fits the symptom profile. Insomnia would imply trouble sleeping, not more sleep; weight loss is not typical here (weight gain from increased appetite is more common); and hyperactivity is not characteristic of the depressive mood seen in SAD.