Senior Project Advisor
Kate Darby
Document Type
Project
Publication Date
Winter 2024
Keywords
Seasonal Affective Disorder, S.A.D., SAD, podcast, Spotify, SoundCloud Depression, seasonal depression, anxiety, mood, mood disorder, ADHD, autism, major depressive disorder, autism, vitamin D
Abstract
This document explores seasonal affective disorder through the lens of the accompanying mini podcast series S.A.D. Survival Kit. Over the course of five episode transcripts, the audience will gain a better understanding of seasonal affective disorder and its associated interrelations with the surrounding environment and any individual’s internal physical and mental health. The podcast is available on Spotify and SoundCloud. (Links are on page 1.) Seasonal affective disorder is a form of seasonal depression marked by a significant change in one’s behavior or thinking patterns when seasons shift. Episode 1 explains the basics of S.A.D. and concludes that many people experience seasonal changes, whether or not they are formally diagnosed with S.A.D. Episode 2 discusses how the use of light therapy, phototherapy, antidepressants, vitamin supplements, and certain lesser known remedies may alleviate one’s symptoms of S.A.D. Episode 3 explores the unique interactions between S.A.D. and four distinct pre-existing mental conditions: major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and autism. Episode 4 concludes that our metabolism plays a key role in determining our state of mental health; we can improve our mental health by improving our habits of eating, exercising, and sleep. Finally, Episode 5 discusses how the mood management theory influences our media consumption while experiencing S.A.D., and how community engagement can be a form of self care and a powerful tool to overcoming seasonal changes.
Department
Environmental Studies
Recommended Citation
Lincoln, Kate, "S.A.D. Survival Kit: A Podcast on Seasonal Affective Disorder" (2024). WWU Honors College Senior Projects. 782.
https://cedar.wwu.edu/wwu_honors/782
Type
Text
Rights
Copying of this document in whole or in part is allowable only for scholarly purposes. It is understood, however, that any copying or publication of this document for commercial purposes, or for financial gain, shall not be allowed without the author’s written permission.
Language
English
Format
application/pdf