Seasonal Affective Disorder 

What exactly is seasonal affective disorder?

 

 

The fall and winter months often signal the season of celebration and holidays. But for many, the darker, colder days herald another type of period: one of fatigue, lethargy and depression. Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, is a type of depression that is related to changes in seasons. It is more common in winter, when there is less natural sunlight.

Symptoms of SAD can include fatigue, mood swings, irritability, problems with concentration, social withdrawal, and changes in appetite. There is no one definitive cause of SAD, but it is believed to be related to changes in the body’s natural clock, or circadian rhythm, as well as to a lack of sunlight.

 

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is more common in women than in men. Studies have found that women are more likely to experience SAD than men, with some estimates suggesting that women are up to four times more likely to be affected. The exact cause of this gender difference is not known, but it is thought to be related to biological, psychological, and social factors. For example, women may be more sensitive to changes in light, as well as to changes in hormones, which can affect mood. Women may also be more likely to experience social isolation, which can contribute to depression.

 

Misconceptions about SAD

1. SAD only affects people in the winter. Although SAD is more common in the winter months, it can also occur in the summer. Summer-onset SAD is less common, but it does exist.

2. SAD only affects people in cold climates. SAD can affect people in any climate. It is more common in areas with less sunlight, but it can occur anywhere.

3. SAD is just a passing mood. SAD is a serious medical condition that can have a significant impact on a person’s life. It is important to seek help from a healthcare professional if you think you may be experiencing SAD.

4. It is just "winter blues" Many people experience feeling down and being more sensitive in the dark days of winter.

 

It is important to know that SAD is a much more serious condition that could be treated. There is no definitive treatment for SAD, but therapies that have been found to be helpful include light therapy, medication, and psychotherapy.

Light therapy, also known as phototherapy, involves exposing oneself to artificial light for a certain amount of time each day. This can help to reset the body’s circadian rhythm and reduce symptoms of SAD. However, plenty of lamps out there won’t do you any good. When searching for a light therapy lamp, you want one that advertises 10,000 lux brightness — the equivalent of a bright summer morning.

Antidepressants can be prescribed to help reduce symptoms of SAD. It is important to speak to a healthcare professional about the risks and benefits of taking medication.

 Psychotherapy can help to identify and address underlying issues that may be contributing to SAD. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy that can be particularly helpful in treating it.

 

If you think you may be experiencing SAD, it is important to seek help from a healthcare professional. They can help to diagnose and treat the condition, and provide support and guidance.