Jackson community could be uniquely vulnerable to seasonal depression
JACKSON, Wyo. — The stretch of weeks between the beginning of daylight saving time and the winter solstice can lead to some of the shortest-feeling days of the year in Jackson, with pre-5 p.m. sunsets and frigid nights. This time of year creates prime conditions for the onset of winter blues , or seasonal affective disorder, aptly shortened to SAD.
SAD is a type of depression that is triggered around the same time every year, when less daylight leads to changes in the brain's chemistry. Symptoms include recurring feelings of listlessness and sadness, sluggishness or low energy, losing interest in daily activities, craving carbohydrates and gaining weight, oversleeping and more.
Daniela Peterson, practicing therapist and founder of Vista Counseling, spoke with Buckrail in 2023 about the disorder, and suggested that the combination of environmental and socioeconomic factors at play in Jackson makes the local community particularly vulnerable to experiencing wintertime SAD.
"Let's remember that Jackson is a mountain ski town, and it's very different to many other places," Peterson said. "Reduced sunlight exposure here disrupts the body's circadian rhythms and affects levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that is totally linked to the mood."
Peterson said that Jackson's famously high altitude could also contribute to people "feeling down" more easily.
"Because we live in such a high altitude, the lack of oxygen makes us more vulnerable to feeling depression," she said. "There's a big correlation between being depressed and lack of oxygen. Mountain towns have higher rates of suicide."
Reduced sunlight and low oxygen levels account for some of the physiological contributors to SAD, which are then bolstered by social contributors distinct to life in a ritzy mountain town.
"Seasonal jobs can lead to economic stressors, especially when Jackson is just so expensive," Peterson said. "The housing crisis has been a major stressor. The anxiety and not knowing what to expect has created a high level of stress. People think, 'What if I lose my housing and the landlord says you've got to be out in 30 days?' That's a huge risk factor."
The seasonal nature of Jackson's economy can also lead to social seclusion and loneliness for many residents.
"Because we have so many transient [residents], they don't build good relationships or they work for the season and then they leave, which can create isolation in some people," Peterson said.
The good news is that SAD is treatable. Keep an eye out for our next about SAD, which will lay out some methods for alleviating those winter blues.
If you or someone you know is struggling right now, reach out for support. You can always call or text 988 for free and confidential support 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you are uncomfortable talking on the phone, you can chat the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988lifeline.org .
This runs annually.
