Winter Depression is Real
As the winter season approaches and daylight hours grow shorter, many people began to experience signs of seasonal depression.
SAD, or seasonal effective disorder, is a form of depression that comes and goes depending on the season. It is commonly known as winter depression because the symptoms are typically more apparent during these months. While some people experience SAD during the summer, it is more likely to express symptoms in the colder months. The reason? Generally speaking , it is due to a lack of sunlight.
What are SAD symptoms?
SAD symptoms typically include a persistent low mood, a loss of pleasure or interest in normal every day activities, and feelings of despair, guilt and worthlessness. Suffers may also feel lethargic (lack energy) and sleepy during the day, or they may sleep for longer than normal periods of time as they find it harder to get up in the morning. Additional symptoms include craving carbohydrates, gaining weight, difficulty concentrating, and a decreased sex drive. In some cases, the symptoms can be severe enough to significantly impact daily activities.
Should I see a doctor?
If you think you might have SAD and you are struggling to cope, it may be necessary to consult a physician. Your doctor will most likely carry out a mental health assessment that will ask questions related to your mood, lifestyle, eating habits and sleeping patterns. This assessment will also consider any changes in your behavior dictated by the seasons or time of year.
What causes seasonal affective disorder?
While the exact cause of SAD is unknown, this condition is typically attributed to reduced exposure to sunlight that occurs during the autumn and winter months. The idea is that a lack of sunlight keeps a part of the brain called the hypothalamus from working properly. This results in changes in the production of melatonin and serotonin, and alters the bodies internal clock.
People with SAD tend to have higher than normal levels of melatonin, and this increases their desire to sleep. A lack of sunlight also results in decreased production of serotonin, which can affect a persons mood, appetite, sleep, and lead to a greater chance of experiencing depression. Finally, sunlight dictates when various functions occur in our bodies. Lower light levels disrupt the body’s internal clock and can result in SAD symptoms.
Treatment for SAD
Treatment for seasonal affective disorder can include a variety of options. It is important to consult with a physician to determine which treatment program is most suitable for you. Popular treatments include lifestyle measures, light therapy, and talking therapies.
People who suffer from SAD may find that making certain lifestyle changes like getting more sunlight, exercising regularly, and managing stress can have positive outcomes. A form of light therapy may be used whereby patients use a light box to simulate exposure to natural sunlight. Finally, such talking therapies as CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), and even antidepressant medications have proven to be effective when prescribed.
If you’re experiencing depression, be sure to monitor whether or not your symptoms change, depending on the the seasons.