Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Seasonal Affective Disorder, causes, signs & symptoms
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression where symptoms occurs at a specific time of a year,usually late fall or early winters, when there is less sunlight and go away during spring and summer.Mild forms of SAD is known as "winter blues". It is very common and normal to feel little down in cold,but it goes beyond this, and if a person starts suffering every day it becomes an issue.
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Signs/Symptoms of SAD:
- Feeling sad or down most of the time usually every day
- loosing intrest in activities that enjoyed earlier
- Experiencing carbohydrate cravings
- Weight gain
- Anxiety
- Increased irritability
- low energy
- Feeling of worthlessness
- Issues with sleep and appetite
- Difficulties in concentration
- Thoughts of self harm and suicide
Does this happen in summers?
Rarely, some people will experience symptoms of SAD in summer ,and this called "summer depression", It starts in late spring or early summer and ends in the fall.
Causes of SAD
Seasonal affective disorder believed to be linked with factors like disrupted circadian rhythm due to reduced sunlight exposure,
low serotonin levels, vitamin D deficiency and changes in melatonin levels. There may be a genetic component to SAD, as individuals with a
family history of depression or SAD may be more susceptible to developing the disorder themselves.
Factors such as geographic location and climate may play a role in the prevalence of SAD. Hormonal fluctuations, such as changes in thyroid function or reproductive hormones,
may also contribute to the development of SAD in some individuals.
It's important to note that not everyone who experiences changes in seasons will develop SAD, and the severity of symptoms can vary from person to person. Additionally,
SAD can also occur in the spring or summer months, though less commonly, and is often referred to as "summer depression."
Treatment for SAD
Treatment for SAD is a combination of psychotherapy,Light therapy and medication.CBT is the talk therapy method used for treat SAD.Antidepresents and vitamin D
supplements are given for better results.Individual is also suggested to spend more time in outdoors than indoor.
Other self-care strategies that may help manage symptoms of SAD include getting regular exercise, maintaining a healthy diet, and practicing
stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness or meditation.