As the days grow shorter and the sunlight fades, many people find themselves feeling more tired, unmotivated, or even downright down. If you’ve noticed a pattern of low mood, irritability, or lack of energy during the fall and winter months, you’re not imagining it—you could be experiencing Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

Let’s explore what SAD is, why it happens, and how to manage it naturally—including lifestyle shifts, light therapy, and supportive supplements like Thorne’s Emotional Balance Support.

Seasonal Affective Disorder is a type of depression that occurs during specific seasons—most commonly in the late fall and winter. It’s more than just “winter blues.” SAD can interfere with daily life, motivation, sleep, and emotional wellbeing.

Common Symptoms of SAD:

• Persistent low mood
• Low energy or fatigue
• Difficulty concentrating
• Increased cravings for carbs or sugar
• Oversleeping or insomnia
• Feelings of hopelessness or irritability
• Social withdrawal

SAD typically starts in the fall when daylight hours begin to decrease and can last through the winter months.

While the exact cause isn't fully understood, researchers believe several factors contribute:

• Reduced Sunlight Exposure
  Less daylight can disrupt your body’s internal clock (circadian rhythm), impacting mood and sleep cycles.
• Drop in Serotonin Levels
  Sunlight helps regulate serotonin, a neurotransmitter linked to mood. Less sunlight = less serotonin.
• Melatonin Imbalance
  Darker days can trigger overproduction of melatonin, the hormone that makes you sleepy.

Genetics, geography (SAD is more common in northern regions), and personal history of depression can all increase your risk.

While therapy and medications are helpful for some, many people benefit from natural, lifestyle-based strategies. Here are some evidence-backed options:

If you feel yourself slipping into a seasonal funk each year, know that you’re not alone—and it’s okay to ask for support. Whether it's through light therapy, movement, nutrition, or supplements like Emotional Balance Support, you have tools to lift the fog.

Your mental health matters in every season.

One natural option to support emotional wellbeing is Emotional Balance Support by Thorne. It’s formulated to help stabilize mood, reduce occasional anxiety, and promote a sense of calm without drowsiness.

• Rhodiola and Eleuthero – Adaptogenic herbs that help the body respond to stress and fatigue
• 5-HTP – A precursor to serotonin to support balanced mood
• GABA and L-Theanine – Calm the nervous system without sedating
• Vitamin B6 and Magnesium – Vital nutrients for mood regulation

This supplement is especially useful during seasonal transitions when mood fluctuations are more common. It's also NSF Certified for Sport®, making it a clean and safe choice.

👉 Learn more or order it here:
https://www.thorne.com/products/dp/emotional-balance-support