There’s nothing prettier than a crisp, cool fall day when yellow and red leaves cling to the trees, and flutter to the ground.
But when daylight savings time ends, and the days become darker and we see less sunlight, the approaching winter can lead to depression.
It’s called SAD, Seasonal Affective Disorder, and the American Academy of Family Physicians says nearly 6 out of 100 people experience it.
Researchers believe the lack of bright light makes a difference in brain chemistry.
Dr. John Hawkins of the Lindner Center of Hope says people may find themselves eating more or sleeping more. In more serious cases, people may suffer from feelings of depression, lethargy, and fatigue.
Dr. Hawkins suggests making a point to exercise and eat well, and letting light in through the windows. He says bright light therapy and medication are also used to treat SAD.