The role of occupational therapy in treating seasonal affective disorder

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a subtype of depression that occurs seasonally, typically in the fall and winter months. It can affect an individual’s well-being, ultimately resulting in a disruption of occupational engagement and performance. Occupational therapy plays a significant role in addressing SAD by fostering meaningful activities, enhancing daily routines, and integrating environmental modifications. This article explores the role of occupational therapy in managing SAD with interventions grounded in the Occupational Therapy Practice Framework: Domain and Process, 4th edition (OTPF-4; American Occupational Therapy Association [AOTA], 2020) that focus on improving client outcomes.