What you Need to know about Seasonal Affective Disorder
Seasonal Affective Disorder: Understanding and Coping with the "Winter Blues"
Do you find that your energy levels and mood dip as the days get shorter and colder? If so, you may be experiencing seasonal affective disorder (SAD). And if you do struggle with SAD, I can assure you that you are not alone.
SAD is a type of depression that occurs at the same time each year, typically starting in the fall and continuing through the winter months. It is thought to be caused by the changes in the amount of sunlight that people are exposed to as the seasons change.
Symptoms of SAD may include a loss of energy, difficulty concentrating, changes in appetite, and a desire to sleep more than usual. Some people may also experience feelings of hopelessness and sadness. SAD is more common in people living in areas with long, dark winters, and it is more likely to occur in women and people with a family history of depression.
The prevalence of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) varies depending on a number of factors, including geographical location, age, and gender. According to estimates from the American Psychiatric Association, SAD affects about 1-2% of the general population in the United States. However, the prevalence of SAD is higher in certain subgroups, such as:
People who live further away from the equator have a higher risk of developing SAD. For example, the prevalence of SAD is estimated to be around 9% in the northeastern United States and around 1% in Florida.
Women are more likely to develop SAD than men, with some estimates suggesting that the condition affects up to 4 times as many women as men.
Young adults and middle-aged adults are more likely to develop SAD than older adults.
It's worth noting that these are just estimates and the actual percentage of people who have SAD may be different from those numbers. Also, it's not uncommon for people to have subsyndromal SAD (S-SAD) which is a milder form of SAD, with less severe symptoms.
Treating SAD
Treatment options may include light therapy, medication, and/or psychotherapy. Light therapy, also known as phototherapy, involves sitting in front of a special light box that emits a bright, white light for a certain amount of time each day. This can help regulate your body's natural sleep-wake cycle and improve your mood.
In addition to seeking medical treatment, there are also a number of self-care strategies that can help you cope with SAD. These may include getting regular exercise, eating a healthy diet, and spending time outdoors during the day to expose yourself to natural sunlight. It can also be helpful to connect with others and participate in activities that you enjoy.
Here are some additional tips on managing seasonal affective disorder:
Maintain a Daily Routine
A routine can be important in helping to manage symptoms of SAD. Having a regular routine can help to regulate the body's circadian rhythm, which can be disrupted by the lack of sunlight during the winter months. This can help to alleviate some of the symptoms associated with SAD, such as fatigue and changes in sleep patterns.
Having a regular routine can also provide a sense of structure and stability, which can be beneficial for people who are experiencing feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness. For example, making sure to get up and go to bed at the same time each day, scheduling regular exercise, and planning social activities can all help to improve mood.
Additionally, incorporating activities that you enjoy into your routine can be helpful, as it can boost your mood and provide a sense of purpose. This might include hobbies, or even simple things like making sure to eat a healthy breakfast or taking a walk during lunchtime.
Increasing Vitamin D
Vitamin D is known as the "sunshine vitamin" because it is produced by the body when the skin is exposed to sunlight. Low levels of vitamin D have been associated with a number of health conditions, including SAD. Some research suggests that increasing vitamin D intake through supplements may help to alleviate symptoms of SAD.
One study found that taking vitamin D supplements in the winter months led to a significant improvement in symptoms of SAD, including depression, anxiety, and fatigue. It's also worth noting that while vitamin D deficiency can be a contributing factor to SAD, but it is not the only one.
It's important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any vitamin D supplements, as excessive intake can have negative effects on the body. Additionally, it's important to consider other factors such as diet, exercise, and social support as well, as they might have a bigger impact in managing SAD symptoms.
Conclusion
If you are struggling with SAD, remember that you are not alone and that there are effective treatments available. Don't hesitate to reach out for help if you are feeling overwhelmed or if your symptoms are interfering with your daily life.
Let me know by answering this poll question whether you struggle with seasonal affective disorder. Let me know in the comments what helps you get through the more difficult winter days.
Do you struggle with Seasonal Affective Disorder
- 0%Yes
- 0%No
- 0%I'm not certain
Stephanie Underwood, R.S.W. | Registered Social Worker and Trauma Specialist