Have you noticed you, a family member, or friends experienced
decreased energy and moodiness in the Fall and Winter months the same time every
year? If so you may be experiencing
symptoms of Seasonal affective disorder also called (SAD). Experts are not sure what causes SAD, but some
studies suggest it may be caused by a lack of sunlight which may disrupt an
individual’s sleep-wake cycle and other circadian rhythms. It may also be caused from lower levels of
serotonin a chemical found in the brain that affects mood (www.webmd.com).
Anyone
can get SAD, but it is more common in:
·
People
who live in areas where winter days are very short or there are big changes in
the amount of daylight in different seasons.
·
Women
·
People
between the ages of 15-55.
·
People
who have a close relative with SAD
SAD
Symptoms may include:
·
Depression
·
Hopelessness
·
Anxiety
·
Loss
of Energy
·
Heavy,
“leaden” feeling in the arms or legs
·
Social
withdrawal
·
Oversleeping
·
Loss
of interest in activities once enjoyed
·
Changes
in appetite, especially cravings for food high in carbohydrates
·
Weight
gain
·
Difficulty
concentrating
SAD
treatment and Coping Strategies
Treatment for seasonal affective
disorder includes light therapy (phototherapy), psychotherapy and
medications. In addition, the following
may also help with coping and managing SAD.
·
Take medications as directed and attend
therapy appointments as scheduled.
·
Get adequate sleep and take time to
relax. Participate in a regular exercise
program. Eat healthy, regular meals. Do not turn to alcohol or illegal drugs
for relief.
·
Practice stress management, learn
techniques to manage stress better.
·
Make an effort to connect with people
you enjoy being around even when you are feeling down.
·
Take vacations in sunny, warm locations
if you have winter seasonal affective disorder.
And if you have summer seasonal affective disorder take vacations to
cooler locations.
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