(Seasonal Affective Disorder – A Seasonal Form of Depression first appeared in the Public Opinion Newspaper in February 2015.)
Could you be suffering from a seasonal form of depression? Dr. Jagdeep Kaur, psychiatrist at Keystone Behavioral Health in Chambersburg, shares what you need to know about seasonal affective disorder and what to do about it.
What is SAD?
Seasonal affective disorder, also known as SAD, is a type of depression that affects people in the fall and winter months, with winter months being the most difficult. People with SAD experience normal mood or high mood for the rest of the year. It is a complex health issue resulting from a combination of factors, but can be diagnosed easily and treated for those who seek help.
Who does it affect?
Symptoms of SAD usually begin in October or November and subside in March or April. Sometimes symptoms can start as early as August and last as long as May. Some studies have shown that SAD is more common in people who live in northern areas of the world, including our area. Women are more likely to have SAD than men. It is less common in older individuals but can occur in children and teens.
Symptoms
Most common symptoms of seasonal affective disorder are oversleeping, daytime tiredness, carbohydrate carvings, and weight gain. Other symptoms can include feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, loss of interest in things that he or she likes to do, social isolation, poor concentration, and suicidal thoughts. Suicidal thoughts should be taken very seriously and reported to medical professionals immediately.
Treatment
SAD is treated the same way as many other types of depression, however it is also treated with light therapy. Light therapy is specifically indicated for SAD. Those suffering from SAD can sit in front of a specially designed light box created for treatment, for at least 30 minutes in the morning. Studies have shown that a combination of medication and light therapy have a great success rate in treating SAD symptoms.
Help and Hope
Like other mental health disorders the exact cause of SAD is unknown—but it can be prevented. Those with any history of depression should regularly follow up with their doctor and take medications as prescribed. Stress management, regular exercise, light therapy, and consistent exposure to daylight during winter months can help. If you experience any symptoms of SAD, talk to your doctor immediately.
For more information about Keystone Behavioral Health, click here.
This article contains general information only and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment or care by a qualified health care provider.
