Overcoming Seasonal Affective Disorder
Thomas Vuong, M.D.
Pleasanton Family Medicine
Each year, nearly one million people spend the holiday season trapped in a form of depression called winter-onset seasonal affective disorder (SAD). SAD affects people in cyclical patterns, most often beginning in October or November, with depression lasting through early May. During this period, those afflicted with SAD may experience mild, moderate and sometimes severe levels of depression.
Professionals warn that SAD is, in fact, a form of depression that can severely impair daily life. People who are experiencing symptoms should not disregard their emotions as simply a case of the winter blues.
Symptoms of seasonal affective disorder are:
- Depression
- Hopelessness
- Anxiety
- Loss of energy
- Social withdrawal
- Oversleeping
- Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed
- Appetite change, specifically craving carbohydrate-rich foods
- Weight gain
- Difficulty concentrating or processing information
The cause of SAD is believed to be linked to a combination of family genetic conditions, such as prevalence of depression in immediate family members, and restricted sunlight exposure. In fact, evidence suggests that people living in the northern hemisphere are more likely to be stricken with SAD because of their significantly longer winter, which provides much less sunlight. Moreover, SAD symptoms may also reappear in those affected when the weather is overcast and sunlight is restricted, or when indoor lighting is decreased. Research suggests that long winter nights may lead to SAD by affecting:
- The body’s internal clock that controls sleep, known as the circadian rhythm
- The body’s production of a hormone, called Melatonin, that controls sleep
- The body’s mood-affecting neurotransmitter, called Serotonin
All of these changes to the body can result from reduced sunlight exposure, and can lead to depression if untreated. SAD is more commonly found in women, however, men are also susceptible to this winter-time depression. SAD is more prevalent in those age 20 and older.
Currently, light therapy is used in an effort to combat SAD. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) recommends light bulbs be between 3000 and 6500 degrees Kelvin to be effective, with the light stand placed at eye level or higher. “Such arrangements illuminate the lower half of the retina, which is rich on photoreceptors that are thought to mediate the antidepressant response,” according to NAMI.
If you feel a little more down-in-the-dumps than usual around the holiday season and are experiencing the signs of SAD consult your physician. Symptoms should not be overlooked because left untreated, SAD could result in a very serious form of depression that can severely impact your life.
Pleasanton Family Medicine is accepting new patients and holding Saturday clinics. The clinic is conveniently located at 1240 West Oaklawn,
suite 107 in Pleasanton (within the South Texas Regional Rehabilitation Center building). Pleasanton Family Medicine accepts most insurance and will gladly verify insurance coverage before your visit upon request. The Medicare Advantage plan is also accepted.
If you suspect seasonal affective disorder may be disrupting your life, call (830) 569-3553 today to schedule an appointment!