Experts believe that seasonal affectivedisorder is the result of climactic and solar changes that occur withthe shift in seasons. For example, fewer hours of sunlight and coldertemperatures in the winter often affect the internal cycles of thehuman body, resulting in depression. Due to this fact, cases ofseasonal affective disorder are more common in locations away from theequator, where seasonal changes are more extreme.
Firstlabeled in 1985, seasonal affective disorder is one of the newestsub-types of depression to be identified. Luckily, our brief knowledgeof the disorder does little to hinder its treatment. Individualsaffected by SAD are treated in a similar manner to regular depressionpatients.
Symptoms Of Seasonal Affective Disorder
People with seasonal affective disorder experience the same symptoms asthose with traditional depression. These include feelings of fatigue,disrupted sleep habits, body tension, increased sedentary lifestyle,decreased sex drive, overeating and irritability. Symptoms that aremore prevalent in those who suffer from seasonal affective disorderduring the winter months include insomnia, loss of appetite andirritability.
Combined, the anguish and sadness that resultsfrom seasonal affective disorder can result in intense feelings ofinadequacy, guilt and low self-esteem. In some cases, these feelingscan become so overwhelming that the individual is led to commitsuicide. If you or a loved one is suffering from SAD, it is recommendedyou seek treatment immediately.
Treatment Options For Seasonal Affective Disorder
By seeking out information on seasonal affective disorder, you havealready taken the first step towards treatment. The key to overcomingthe disorder is to gain a better understanding of the causes of SAD.Beyond lack of sunlight itself, excessive stress and anxiety canexacerbate symptoms. As such, counseling from an independentpsychiatrist or center for stress, anxiety and depression are often themost effective solutions.
Additionally, antidepressants andphototherapy may also be helpful. Phototherapy involves exposing thebody to bright light to help overcome the shorter days experienced inthe winter. For a well-rounded approach to treatment, regional centerssuch as the Midwest Center for Stress and Depression(http://www.stresscenter.com) have helped thousands overcome depressionand return to a more healthy state of living.
