The season for SAD

There’s more to the winter blues than most people think. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression linked primarily to the late fall and winter months. As many as 6 out of every 100 people are affected in the U.S., with another 10 to 20 percent undergoing a milder form of seasonal-related mood change.
 
The causes aren’t known, but could include heredity or chemical changes in the brain related to sunlight exposure. Studies have shown that SAD occurs more often in women.
 
According to Rachael Mergenmeier, DO, family practice physician at Doctors Express in Creve Coeur, symptoms include a depressed mood, loss of interest in normal activities, fatigue, feelings of hopelessness and poor concentration. Some people maybe have recurrent thoughts of death or suicide as well.
 
For those suffering from it, SAD usually returns each year. While the effects can be overwhelming, there are successful treatment options, says Dr. Mergenmeier. Some of those treatments are as simple as spending more daylight time outdoors, or increasing lamps within your home. Medical therapy, like bright light treatments, is available, as are antidepressant medications.
 
“SAD can have a significant impact on quality of life,” says Dr. Mergenmeier. “It’s very important to seek treatment if you are experiencing any depression-related symptoms, because there are a myriad of options available to overcome it.”
 
Speak with your doctor as soon as possible if you or a loved one is experiencing any symptoms of depression or Seasonal Affective Disorder.