Bring Back the Sunshine

We are all familiar with the winter blues, but I admit I haven’t heard much of Seasonal Affective Disorder in the past few years. I could be wrong but it seem to just get grouped with general depression or “just going through something.” According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), Seasonal Affective Disorder also known as SAD is a form of depression but typically comes during late fall or early winter. Although for most symptoms go away in the spring or summer there are cases of SAD reported in the spring or summer as well.

For some, SAD can come out of nowhere and the symptoms can be associated with just feeling down due to the lack of sunlight, and other weather conditions. You may not be aware you are actually dealing with SAD. This disorder is more common in women and cases in younger children have also been reported. Its reported it effects more than 3 million people in the US each year.

Symptoms of winter and spring SAD may include:

· Feeling depressed and worthless

· Loss of concentration

· Loss of interest in activities

· Trouble sleeping

· Oversleeping

· Increase cravings for more carbohydrates or fatty foods

· Weight loss or weight gain

· Loss of appetite

· Suicide thoughts

· Isolation, feeling like hibernation

· Increase irritability

· Insomnia

· anxiety

Factors that causes SAD are not known, however researchers suggest it certain conditions can influence SAD, such as the changes in the seasons that affects the body’s internal clock, reduced levels of serotonin, imbalance of melatonin produced in the body, Vitamin D insufficiency, individual and family history of SAD or any other mental health disorder, and the distance living from the equator. While experiencing SAD symptoms its helpful to continue to follow a healthy diet, monitor your mood and energy levels, get enough sleep and resist oversleeping, adopt healthy coping skills for stress, avoid drugs and alcohol, take a trip to warmer destinations during the winter, and connect with social support system, and friends outside of your home.

During the time of feeling SAD symptoms you may notice you neglect important responsibilities, interact with others less and less, and feel guilty for not feeling like your usual self. Although the symptoms of SAD can began to play into one another its important to remember this depressed mood is usually temporary, and to be gentle with your thoughts about yourself and how you are feeling.

Reference:

National Institute of Mental Health

https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/seasonal-affective-disorder/index.shtml