Eliminate Seasonal Affective Disorder for Good

Seasonal Affective Disorder (or SAD) is a weather dependent type of clinical depression

. I thought that since we were heading into autumn that we could take a look at this emotionally debilitating disorder. The cornerstone of emotional and mental wellness is emotional stability, which describes how well we deal with day-to-day stresses of personal interactions and the physical environment.

Weather often affects people's moods. This has a lot to do with the amount of sunlight in the day. A rainy and cloudy day may make us feel a little gloomy but this is not to be mistaken for Seasonal Affective Disorder. Some people are very vulnerable to a type of depression with a seasonal pattern. It usually starts in late autumn and doesn't subside until early spring. There is a light version of SAD that people often refer to as "the winter blues". SAD is much more debilitating than the occasional winter blues.

Seasonal Affective Disorder has been a known condition for over 150 years but was finally labeled a disorder in the 1980s. Many people suffering from SAD may not be aware that it even exists and that there is very effective help out there.

SAD can be a severely debilitating condition, preventing sufferers from functioning normally. It may affect their personal and professional lives, and seriously limit their potential. It is important to learn about the symptoms, and to know that there is treatment to help people with SAD live a productive life year-round.

Symptoms

SAD is difficult to diagnose because a lot of the symptoms are similar to those of of other types of mental illness. Generally if you feel you have recurring symptoms 2 winters in a row you likely have SAD and should consult a professional.

change in appetite, in particular a craving for sweet or starchy foods

weight gain

decreased energy

fatigue tendency to oversleep difficulty concentrating

irritability

avoidance of social situations

feelings of anxiety and despair

The symptoms of sad typically go away when spring time arrives.

How is SAD Treated

People with minor symptoms of SAD can greatly benefit from additional sunlight. Getting outside during peak sun hours for 20-30 minutes a day is recommended. What helped me when I discovered I suffered from SAD in 2007 was a "SAD Light" or a light therapy box. I would use it in the morning for 20 minutes and often at work during my lunch break for 15-20 minutes. I can't even tell you how much of a difference this made for me. It was truly like finding the magic cure. However, this will not work for everyone. It is a good first step but you must keep active and eat well to keep physical wellness in check. For those who are most severely affected your doctor may prescribe anti-depressant medication to help you through the winter.

Increasing your exposure to light, monitoring your diet, sleep patterns and exercise levels are important first steps. For those who are severely affected, devising a treatment plan with a health care professional consisting of light therapy, medication and cognitive-behavioural therapy may also be needed.

If you think you may suffer from SAD please speak to a health care professional. I was able to pull myself out of the Seasonal Affective Disorder funk and so can you. Let's keep our mental and emotional wellness in check!

Eliminate Seasonal Affective Disorder for Good

By: Mitch Straus

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