Frequently Asked Questions
Is this check-in a diagnosis of seasonal affective disorder?
No. This is a free, self-reflection tool, not a clinical diagnosis. Seasonal affective disorder (formally, major depressive disorder "with seasonal pattern" in the DSM-5-TR) can only be diagnosed by a licensed clinician, typically after confirming the same seasonal pattern has repeated for at least two years and ruling out other causes. What this check-in can do is give you a plain-language snapshot across four seasonal-mood domains as a starting point for that conversation.
How is this different from the regular Mood Check-In (depression screener)?
The Mood Check-In asks about depressive symptoms in general, however and whenever they show up. This check-in asks specifically about the seasonal pattern: does your mood, sleep, and appetite shift once fall and winter arrive, and reliably lift again by spring? That reliable reversal, worse in darker months, better in lighter ones, is the core thing that distinguishes a seasonal pattern from depression that isn't tied to the calendar.
Why does the check-in ask about sleeping MORE, not less?
Seasonal affective disorder is strongly associated with an "atypical" or "reverse vegetative" symptom pattern: hypersomnia (oversleeping and still waking unrested) and increased appetite, especially for carbohydrates, rather than the insomnia and appetite loss more common in non-seasonal depression. That's why this check-in asks about sleeping and craving more, not less, during the darker months.
I only feel this way some winters, not every year. Does that still count?
It can. Clinically, a seasonal pattern is usually confirmed after it repeats for at least two years, but plenty of people notice it building gradually or varying somewhat in intensity year to year before it becomes fully consistent. If you're noticing a repeating fall/winter shift even if it isn't identical every year, it's still worth reflecting on and worth mentioning to a doctor.
Does living somewhere sunny mean I can't have this?
It's less common, but not impossible. Seasonal affective disorder is more prevalent at higher latitudes with bigger swings in day length, but shorter winter days, more time indoors, and less sun exposure can still produce a seasonal pattern anywhere, including in generally sunny climates.
What should I do with a moderate or severe result?
Treat it as a reason to talk to a doctor or therapist, not as a verdict. Seasonal-specific treatments, bright light therapy, CBT adapted for seasonal patterns, and in some cases medication, have strong evidence and can meaningfully shorten how hard the season feels. If thoughts of self-harm come up at any point, please contact a crisis line right away: 988 (US) or 116 123 (Samaritans, UK/IE).