What is Seasonal Affective Disorder?

With the fall season creeping upon us, it is very normal to feel sad when we transition from sunny blue skies to cold gloomy days. As the days end earlier and our exposure to sunlight, seasonal affective disorder (SAD) becomes more common.

The biological cause of the seasonal affective disorder has yet to be fully determined; however, research shows that chemical imbalances contribute to the phenomena. Chemical imbalances include; Serotonin and Melatonin. Melatonin plays a role in our biological clock, the circadian rhythm. The decrease in sunlight may disorganize our body's internal clock – causing us to feel depressed. Serotonin; regulates our mood, has seen to decrease during the winter months.

SAD is considered more common in individuals living far from the equator given that there are scarcer daylight hours in the winter. Individuals who have been diagnosed with depression and other mood disorders may be at risk for SAD as symptoms of depression may worsen seasonally.

The hard months for people with SAD to endure in the United States are January and February. Although, in rare cases, some individuals experience SAD in the summer. The symptoms of those with Winter SAD and Summer SAD are different. Some of the most common symptoms of winter SAD are: arms and legs feeling sluggish, continual oversleeping, increased appetite, especially for carbohydrates, relationship problems. Summer SAD symptoms are poor appetite, weight loss, and anxiety.

The most notable treatment for SAD is light therapy. The process involves using a lightbox. The box emulates sunlight; thus, triggers chemicals in the brain that help with mood regulation. This treatment is beneficial in particular for those who experience the SAD during Winter. Those who are considering to use a lightbox to help regulate their SAD symptoms should not impulsively buy light boxes or lamps from the internet. Seeking professional consultation and advisement is essential when needed to make sure the patient has purchased a safe device. Antidepressants can also be used to treat SAD; selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors are the most commonly used.

Don't overlook that yearly feeling of the winter blues as if it's a seasonal habit that will fade away over time. If you ever find yourself feeling upset, please talk to someone, reach out to your friends and family, speak with someone professional.

The winter blues

Picture Source: healthychildren.org