Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
As the year comes to a close, this season of festivities, warmth, and togetherness brings immense joy and happiness to so many people. However, for others, it can be a time of struggle, marked by what many refer to as seasonal depression, or Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Each year, approximately 5% of the American population experiences this condition (Mental Health America, 2024), which can be triggered by a variety of complex factors such as the changing weather, shifting family dynamics, financial stress, and pre-existing mental health challenges. As we embrace this season, it's essential to remain mindful of those around us who may be silently struggling. Now, more than ever, we must offer compassion, lend a helping hand, and draw those who need extra support closer. We must also offer that same support to ourselves when we need it, and music can be a powerful tool in this process.
Our brains are home to what we often refer to as the "four happy hormones": Dopamine, Serotonin, Oxytocin, and Endorphins (Eske, 2024). Among these, dopamine and serotonin play crucial roles in regulating our mood, and imbalances in these hormones are frequently linked to depression. Interestingly, both of these hormones are significantly influenced by music. Research has shown that "music triggers the release of dopamine in both the dorsal and ventral striatum," regions of the brain that are key players in processing pleasure and reward (Lehrer, 2011). In a similar vein, studies have also found that "pleasant music leads to an increase in serotonin platelets," further demonstrating music's ability to positively affect our mood (Zaatar, 2023).
All of this highlights the profound impact that music can have on conditions like Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), offering a powerful tool for emotional support during the colder months. Whether you're drawn to the festive sounds of holiday music or prefer to listen to your everyday playlist throughout the season, music can serve as a comforting and uplifting companion through the challenges of this time of year and beyond.
References
Lehrer, J. (2011, January 6). The neuroscience of music: How music affects our brains. Wired. https://www.wired.com/2011/01/the-neuroscience-of-music/
Medical News Today. (2019, November 19). What is seasonal affective disorder (SAD)? Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326090
Mental Health America. (n.d.). Seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Mental Health America. https://mhanational.org/conditions/seasonal-affective-disorder-sad
Zaatar, A. (2023). The effects of music on serotonin levels and mental health: A review of research. PubMed Central. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10765015/
