We’ve talked about seasonal affective disorder before, but when it comes to winter in this part of the country, it bears further discussion. Froedtert Health & the Medical College of Wisconsin recently sent out some tips [PDF] on recognizing and dealing with SAD.
SAD, says Froedtert, is “a mood disorder characterized by depression related to a certain season of the year — especially winter.” And, the organization notes: “SAD is a clinical diagnosis accepted in the medical community.”
What may surprise you is that although SAD is most prevalent during fall and winter, when the weather gets colder and the days get darker, it can also affect people during the spring and summer.
| Fall and winter symptoms of SAD • Depression • Oversleeping • Hopelessness • Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed • Anxiety • Appetite changes, especially craving high-carb foods • Loss of energy • Weight gain • Heavy, “leaden” feeling in the arms or legs • Difficulty concentrating • Social withdrawal |
Spring and summer symptoms of SAD • Anxiety • Weight loss • Trouble sleeping (insomnia) • Poor appetite • Irritability • Increased sex drive • Agitation |
Women are at a higher risk for SAD than men, as is anyone with a family history of depression or other mental illness. If you find yourself having trouble getting motivated to do things you normally enjoy, feeling more down than usual, or drinking too much or thinking about suicide or experiencing other harmful thoughts, you should call your doctor. SAD — and depression in general — is a real medical issue that warrants getting real help.
Light therapy can be an effective treatment, as can medication and working with a therapist. If you’re feeling SAD or just plain sad, try getting more sunlight, getting outside (as long as you’re in warm clothes, of course!) and exercising on a regular basis.