Seasonal Affective Disorder

Dark clouds in the sky can be a source of misery for a few, who prefer basking under the bright sun, or joy for the rest, who love dancing in the rain – it differs from person to person. Which group do you belong to? If you are a part of the group who get induced withdespondent feelings due to weather, you might be associated with seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

Seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, is a kind of depression. It occurs in specific seasons of the year, usually in the fall or winter. Reduced daylight and shorter days are thought to cause a chemical shift in the brain that results in depressive symptoms. Antidepressants and light therapy are useful treatments for SAD. Typically, SAD begins in adulthood, and usually during the same time every year. With age comes an increased risk of SAD. It is uncommon in those under 20. More frequently than not, women are impacted. Shorter days and less sunlight are assumed to be connected to a chemical alteration in the brain, which could contribute to the development of SAD. Another hormone connected to sleep, melatonin, has also been connected to SAD. In the dark, the body naturally produces more melatonin. Consequently, the production of melatonin increases with shorter and darker days.

The symptoms of SAD are quite distinct and easy to spot: enhanced sleep and sleepiness during the day, loss of enjoyment and interest in once-enjoyed activities, social disengagement and heightened susceptibility to rejection, intolerance and uneasiness, feelings of helplessness and guilt, tiredness or low vitality.

Therefore, it is also quite simple to diagnose and treat SAD. For example, sunshine exposureby taking a break by a window or going outside can help reduce symptoms. If getting more sunlight is not an option, spending a set period of time each day under a certain type of light can be beneficial. Furthermore, interpersonal therapy or cognitive-behavioral therapy can assist in modifying any skewed perceptions you may have of the world and yourself; it can assist you in developing stronger interpersonal relationships and learning how to recognize and deal with stressors. Also, antidepressants can be used as the chemical imbalance that may cause SAD can be corrected with the use of these prescription medications. The best way to treat SAD would be to get more exercise and eat healthy!

Most importantly, seek assistance. As soon as possible, consult a healthcare professional if you suspect you may be depressed.

-Dhrishit Patel