Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a mental health condition. In the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, it’s formally labeled as a type of major depression.
The official name for SAD is a major depressive disorder with a seasonal pattern. However, most people just know it as SAD.
If you think you may be experiencing this condition, take the seasonal affective disorder (SAD) quiz below. It will give you an idea of where you fall in regards to SAD symptoms.
How Does This Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) Quiz Work?
This quiz evaluates how likely you are to be experiencing symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD). It is based on diagnostic symptoms of this disorder.
You will receive a total score between 0 and 40. Higher scores indicate a higher level of SAD symptoms. Your total score is the sum of your responses across all items.
Who Is This Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) Quiz For?
This seasonal affective disorder (SAD) quiz is for anyone who feels down or irritable during certain times of the year. SAD symptoms usually appear during winter, but they can show up in the summer, too.
If your mood shifts during certain seasons, take this quiz to see whether you might meet the criteria for SAD.
Is It Accurate?
This quiz cannot diagnose seasonal affective disorder (SAD). However, it is based upon diagnostic criteria for the condition.
It will give you an idea of whether you’re showing symptoms of SAD. If you score high, it’s best to seek assessment from a mental health professional.
Other Things You Might Want To Know
If you’re taking a social anxiety disorder (SAD) quiz, you might be interested in the other information below.
These resources provide additional information related to SAD:
- Seasonal Affective Disorder: National Institute of Mental Health.
- Seasonal Affective Disorder: More Than The Winter Blues.
- Seasonal Affective Disorder: National Library of Medicine.
Frequently Asked Questions
The prevalence of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) varies based on location. In Florida, 1% of people experience SAD, compared to 9% in Alaska.
In the United States, clinicians use the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition, to diagnose mental health conditions. This book lists diagnostic criteria for a variety of mental health conditions, including SAD.
SAD is diagnosed by physicians, psychiatrists or mental health professionals. Mental health professionals who may diagnose SAD include psychologists, professional counselors, and clinical social workers. Psychiatric nurse practitioners may also diagnose SAD.
For Your Health & Wellness