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With the arrival of fall and winter, there's a notable increase in cases of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a form of depression that typically occurs during these colder, darker months. This condition is marked by symptoms common to depression, such as fatigue, feelings of worthlessness and difficulty concentrating.

In an interview with KOBI-TV NBC5, Dr. Tracy Dixon from Providence Medical Group noted the particular intensity of SAD symptoms in regions like Southern Oregon, where gloomier weather is more prevalent.

"The symptoms are very similar to irregular depressive disorder. So, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness, difficulty concentrating, difficulty sleeping, lack of interest in activities in a depressed mood," Dr. Dixon explained.

Students, especially those away from home for the first time, are among those significantly impacted by SAD. At Southern Oregon University, therapist Jose Luis Garcia-Gomez observed a trend of isolation among students.

"They may stop attending class because they're oversleeping. It's like hibernating, they're not having a lot of contact with others," Garcia-Gomez pointed out via the same news outlet.

Garcia-Gomez also mentioned the added challenges of the fall semester, such as new students adjusting to college life and the stress of finals in December, which can exacerbate feelings of depression.

Both experts recommend several strategies to manage SAD symptoms. These include medication management, various therapies, adequate intake of vitamins C and D, maintaining social connections and adhering to a consistent exercise and sleep routine.

Dr. Dixon emphasized the importance of patience in finding the right balance of treatments.

"Once you figure out your perfect equation for what works for you, stick to that, but be patient in trying to find what works," she advised.

Meanwhile, Garcia-Gomez suggested that parents and grandparents can support students by sending care packages and words of encouragement, helping them navigate this challenging period.