Local radio DJ shares perspective of Seasonal Affective Disorder

BOWLING GREEN, KY.- As daylight diminishes and the winter approaches, many individuals may experience changes in their mood and energy levels. This shift can significantly impacts your brain, leading to a common form of depression. Melanie Watts, Director of Life Skills, explains, “We call it seasonal affective disorder or otherwise known as SAD.”

SAD affects everyone differently; while some may never experience its symptoms, others face its challenges regularly. Local advocate Tony Rose, a morning show host on D93, shares his perspective. He says, “For me, it’s kind of living almost like a life in the dark. You know, you wake up in the dark in the morning, and you’re going to work before the sun comes up.”

The transition of seasons can affect anyone, regardless of their daily responsibilities. Whether in school, at work, or caring for a family, mental shifts are common and can be hard to manage. Rose notes, “For many of us, whether we’re on the radio or in another public-facing job, there’s a pressure to always be ‘on.’”

Unfortunately, many people may not recognize the signs of SAD until it becomes overwhelming. Watts emphasizes the importance of discussing mental health openly. “Some people go through their whole life just thinking, oh, it’s just the holiday blues,” she says. “It’s important for quality of life to address these feelings.”

As we face the darker months ahead, fostering awareness about Seasonal Affective Disorder is crucial. By encouraging conversations about mental health, we can help ourselves and others navigate the emotional challenges that come with changing seasons.

Melanie Watts encourages anyone and everyone, if you’re feeling down or notice someone that’s acting differently contact 988.