Health and Wellness

A quick look at Seasonal Affective Disorder

The seasons have changed; and, for some people, a sense of persistent sadness seems to go hand-in-hand with the change. When does that sadness become depression?The National Institute of Mental Health identifies Seasonal Affective Disorder, a depression which comes and goes with the seasons, as ìa type of depression displaying a recurring seasonal pattern.îPeople diagnosed with SAD meet the full criteria for major depression, and their depression coincides with specific seasons for at least two years, according to NIMH.On its website, ìPsychology Todayî stated that 10 million Americans suffer from SAD, a disorder four more times common in women than in men. It typically presents itself between age 18 and 30.While winter-pattern SAD is most common, some people also suffer from summer seasonal affective disorder. Symptoms of the disorder can vary depending on the season, according to NIMH.The NIMH website states that symptoms of winter-pattern SAD can include low energy; hypersomnia; overeating and weight gain; craving for carbohydrates; and social withdrawal, almost like hibernation. Summer seasonal affective disorder can be manifested by a poor appetite and weight loss; insomnia; agitation; restlessness; anxiety; and episodes of violent behavior.ìSome people experience symptoms severe enough to affect quality of life, and 6 percent require hospitalization. Many people with SAD report at least one close relative with a psychiatric disorder, most frequently a severe depressive disorder (55 percent) or alcohol abuse (34 percent),î according to ìPsychology Today.îWhile the cause of SAD is unknown, it is thought to be related to an increase in the bodyís melatonin production ñ- a hormone found in the body that helps regulate sleep. As the days shorten and nights become longer, the body produces more melatonin, creating feelings of sleepiness and lethargy.NIMH also states that people with SAD may have trouble regulating serotonin, a key neurotransmitter affecting mood. They may also produce less vitamin D, which is believed to play a role in serotonin activity.Medication, light therapy, psychotherapy and Vitamin D are the four types of major treatment for SAD.Those who believe they may be suffering from SAD are encouraged to consult a medical professional or contact a hotline, like the Colorado Crisis Services support line, by calling 1-844-493-8255, texting ìTALKî to 38255 or visiting http://coloradocrisisservices.org.

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