N. Daley
It is that time of year once again when the days are becoming noticeably shorter, there is a cool breeze in the air, and some of us even have had to light the wood stove in the evenings.
Most of us enjoy the beauty of this time of year; however, the realization of what’s to come often is not far from our thoughts.
Weather often affects people’s moods. Sunlight can lift our spirits while a dull, rainy day may make us feel a little low. But while noticeable, these shifts in mood generally do not affect our ability to cope with daily life.
With Seasonal Affective Disorder, however, fall’s short days and long nights may trigger feelings of depression, lethargy, fatigue, and other problems.
Don’t brush this off as simply a case of the “winter blues” that you have to tough out on your own.
SAD is thought to be related to seasonal variations in light. Another belief is that neurotransmitters—chemical messengers in the brain that help regulate sleep, mood, and appetite—may be disturbed.
SAD can be difficult to diagnose since many of the symptoms are similar to those of other types of depression or bipolar disorder. Even physical conditions such as thyroid problems can look like depression.
Generally, symptoms that recur for at least two consecutive winters indicate the presence of SAD. Symptoms may include:
•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; and/or
•feelings of anxiety and despair
The symptoms of SAD usually will disappear when spring arrives—suddenly for some or gradually for others.
There is treatment available for SAD. Mild symptoms, for instance, can be managed by spending more time outdoors during the day and arranging your environments so you receive maximum sunlight.
Exercise also helps to relieve stress, build energy, and increase your mental and physical well-being.
Many people with SAD respond well to exposure to bright, artificial light. “Light therapy” involves sitting beside a special fluorescent light box for several minutes a day.
A health care professional should be consulted before beginning light therapy.
For people who are more severely affected by SAD, antidepressant medications may have to be considered. Speak to your doctor about your health care concerns and treatment options.
If you would like more information about Seasonal Affective Disorder or would like to arrange a presentation, contact Nancy Daley at 274-2347.
Online information can be obtained at www.cmha.ca
