Depression continues despite weather

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Seasonal affective disorder, or S.A.D., can be a big problem for people this time of year. But did our sunshine and warmth limit this type of depression?

Last winter was rough for even the heartiest New Englander.

"We had snow after snow after snow. And no sunshine is bad, you go into work and it's dark and you come home and it's dark and you just feel like you're missing life really," said Brian Sanders of Westfield.

Feeling a little low in the winter is common, but some people get so depressed they can diagnosed with Seasonal Affective Disorder.

According to Dr. Ben Liptzin, Chairman of the Department of Psychiatry at Baystate health, symptoms include: consistently feeling in a down mood, feeling sad and possibly having less energy in the winter months.

But has our mild, sunny weather helped people who suffer from this?

"The temperature is actually less important than the amount of sunlight and even with sunnier days the days just are shorter in the winter, so people who are very sensitive to the amount of light are still going to notice it getting dark at 4, 4:30," said Dr. Liptzin.

But nicer weather does have some impact, it's certainly helping people stay happier this winter.

"You're a lot more upbeat when you can be outdoors more you know?,” said Jeff Denbin

Seasonal affective disorder isn't limited to winter, some people can feel seasonal depression in the hot summer months as well.