Seasonal Affective Disorder

December 18, 2023 By Admin

___

By: Gia Patel

INTRODUCTION

As the days become shorter and cold weather seems to worsen, the holidays also come by. The holidays are a period of time where yeh majority of us indulge the several holidays near the end of the year as we endeavor to end on a positive note. But alongside, the holidays comes the peak of SAD; Seasonal Affective Disorder. SAD is often described as, “A mood disorder that occurs during the same season”. Most commonly, SAD can be seen occurring in most individuals during the holidays. Though some individuals may be enjoying the holidays it is crucial that individuals struggling with SAD are represented and understood as SAD is consistently barely mentioned. In my blog, I aim to gain awareness on SAD and what we as individuals can do to help.

What Is SAD?

SAD is a disorder that is often described; A mood disorder that shadows depression and occurs the same time each year.

Those diagnosed with SAD will often experience several of the following symptoms:

Appetite Changes
Insomnia
Anxiety
Mood Swings
Lack Of Concentration
Social Isolation

What Causes SAD?

SAD can be caused by several varying factors, though the clear cause is yet to be discovered. These factors include..

Reduced Sunlight
Circadian Rhythm
Overproduction Of Melatonin
Decreased Serotonin Levels

Through late fall and early winter those prone to SAD experience it as a result of a chemical change in their brains caused by the lack of sunlight and shorter days.

SAD vs. Depression

Even though SAD and Depression may seem strikingly similar, they are not necessarily the same disorder. One of the key differences includes the duration of each one. SAD is often known to occur relatively around fall to winter. On the contrary Depression occurs all year round. Another difference includes changes in sleep. With SAD it is extremely likely one will have extended hours of sleep, but with Depression this can vary. Though both disorders have differences they have extremely similar symptoms as they are both classified as a mood disorder.

Finding Help

It is important that when one is diagnosed with SAD they seek out accommodation to address it. There are several ways to treat SAD that can vary from types of therapy to self care. Solutions for SAD include..

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Antidepressants
Light Therapy
Self-Care Methods
Counseling
Talking Therapies

Light Therapy

When it comes to treating SAD, light therapy has become an increasingly effective and well known solution. Light Therapy is a type of therapy where individuals would utilize a light therapy box to mimic the outdoor lighting. This method has been proved to work as SAD can be a result of chemical changes in your brain initially caused by the lack of sunlight. When using light therapy the individuals brain will experience a reverse chemical change that boosts their mood and eases certain symptoms of SAD. Overall, light therapy has become a popular option for those with SAD due to its affective nature.

Sources: