Winter Depression: Definition

Winter depression, the most common manifestation of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) (synonyms: seasonal affective disorder; Seasonal Affective Disorder; ICD-10 F32.9: Depressive Episode, Unspecified), refers to depressive states that occur primarily in winter (most pronounced in January) and resolve toward summer (usually as early as February).

Winter depression is nowadays also called autumn-winter depression, as this describes the actual period better.

Winter depression was already described by ancient physicians. However, many affected people do not go to the doctor, because for them the suffering with winter depression does not seem to be bad enough.

Seasonal accumulation of the disease: Mainly in winter (most pronounced in January) and regression towards summer (usually already from February).

Sex ratio: Women are more often affected than men (about 4: 1).

Frequency peak: The disease occurs predominantly after the age of 30.

Exact figures on the prevalence of winter depression are only available for the USA. There, a prevalence of 4-18% is estimated. In recent years, the number of people affected seems to have increased. In southern countries the prevalence is lower and in Scandinavia it is significantly higher than in Germany.

Course and prognosis: With consistent therapy, the prognosis of winter depression is good. In spring, sufferers feel an increase in performance and activity, and by summer they are symptom-free.