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SeasonalEffect Disorder (now referred to as Depressive Disorder with Seasonal Pattern)commonly effects about 5% of the population commonly beginning between the ages18-30; more common among women than men. While most of us in the northernregion are effected by lessening of light (vitamin D) during the fall andwinter months and change in our circadian rhythms due to the increase indarkness, SAD is different than “the winter blues.” Common symptoms of SADinclude fatigue, even with too much sleep, and weight gain associated withovereating and carbohydrate cravings. SAD symptoms can vary from mild to severeand can include many symptoms similar to major depression, such as:
Feeling of sadness or depressed mood
Marked loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
Changes in appetite; usually eating more, craving carbohydrates
Change in sleep; usually sleeping too much
Loss of energy or increased fatigue despite increased sleep hours
Increase in restless activity (e.g., hand-wringing or pacing) or slowed movements and speech
Feeling worthless or guilty
Trouble concentrating or making decisions
Thoughts of death or suicide or attempts at suicide
The APA recommends diagnosis of SAD through the following criteria:
- Depression and other symptoms that have occurred for at least two consecutive years, during the same season every year.
- The periods of depression have been followed by periods without depression.
- There are no other explanations for the changes in mood or behavior.
Treatment:
While SADsymptoms can lessen without treatment with the change of seasons into spring treatmentsfor SAD include light therapy using a UV light that simulates the sun. It isrecommended to sit within 2 feet of the light in the morning from fall throughwinter months for min. 20 minutes per day. Therapy (especially CBT) can assistin identifying and managing symptoms. Use of SSRI medications(antidepressants). Spending time outside- fresh air! Eating healthfully. Othersuggestions include taking supplements including multivitamins, vitamin D,B-Complex Vitamins, fish oil or use of essential oils including lemon,lavender, chamomile, rose, etc. While symptoms have the potential to last up40% of the year, the change in season into spring and later into summer canbring relief, increasing energy and boosting serotonin.
Heather Lettow, MA, LPC, LMFT serves individuals (age 10+), couples and families. She focuses on identifying individual or family goals and strengthening self awareness to facilitate change and to meet the goals set; utilizing mindfulness, CBT and solution focused problem solving techniques.