What is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)? Seasonal affective disorder or seasonal depression is depression which gets triggered by a phase change in seasons, typically when fall begins. Generally this seasonal affective disorder gets worse at the beginning of winter and better during the spring. Some individuals will have a mild form of seasonal affective disorder known as the Winter Blues. Others deal with severe seasonal affective disorder suffering from symptoms such as anxiety attacks, fatigue, irritability, and loss of interest in everyday activities. In fact seasonal affective disorder is the most common mood disorder among adults.
Researchers are not sure why there is a connection between the seasons and mood disorders. One theory on the basis of neurological studies states that a person's mood is influenced by a biological clock called the Central Nervous System or CNS. This biological clock is controlled by an internal stimulus such as light or exercise. During periods of light and rest, it regulates the firing of neurons which provide a signal to the rest of the body to prepare for the next activity.
Other researchers believe that seasonal depression may be due to changes in hormone levels. Testosterone is thought to be related to levels of melatonin, which regulates sleep. Low levels of melatonin may trigger the person's biological clock to reset itself and cause a depressed mood. Others believe that certain phobias or stressors trigger episodes of seasonal depression. For instance, people who are afraid of the dark, experience repeated nightmares or panic attacks about night time, have phobias of staircases or elevators, and have problems sleeping at night may be more prone to seasonal affective disorder.
There are some common symptoms of seasonal depression which may include excessive feelings of sadness or hopelessness, persistent thoughts about death or illness, irritability, fatigue, decreased concentration or focus, and changes in sleep and diet. A change in the seasonal cycle may trigger symptoms. For instance, during the Christmas and New Year period, many adults experience a sudden change of mood that continues into the following January. During the summer, many people experience feelings of sadness and despair. People who work during the night shift might experience physical symptoms such as headaches, chest pains, and increased menstrual flow.
Some research has shown that genetics may play an important role in seasonal depression. Research also indicates that certain chemicals in the brain may be responsible for the disorder. These chemicals, such as serotonin, are involved in regulating mood and anxiety as well as other functions such as memory and attention. Abnormal levels of serotonin in the brain have been linked with various mental disorders such as bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and major depression.
It is thought that seasonal affective disorder, bipolar disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder are all caused by chemical imbalances in the brain. However, there is some evidence to suggest that low levels of certain neurotransmitters may play a role. Antidepressants, which act on the neurotransmitters, have been shown to reduce symptoms of depression and prevent depression from recurring. Additionally, these medications may help to prevent or alleviate other mental conditions such as migraine headaches, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and other mood and anxiety disorders. Some researchers are exploring the use of vitamin B6 and magnesium in treating seasonal affective disorder, bipolar disorder, and other mood disorders.
In addition, researchers believe that people suffering from seasonal affective disorder may benefit from practicing deep breathing and other relaxation techniques during the depression season. During this time, it is thought that the immune system may not be as strong and people are more susceptible to colds and infections. It is also thought that light and sunlight, two things that are beneficial to the human body during the seasons, may help to alleviate the symptoms. Researchers have even suggested that the introduction of more natural substances such as omega 3 fatty acids, vitamins B, C, and E, and choline may help to lessen the symptoms of seasonal affective disorder. This is especially important during the time that the sun is at its lowest point throughout the year.
Those with seasonal depression who are exposed to sunlight during their depression will likely find relief. In fact, according to the American Psychological Association, individuals who are exposed to natural sunlight for longer periods than six months are less likely to experience any of the seven sad symptoms of winter, including sadness, hopelessness, guilt, worthlessness, helplessness, and guilt feelings. Researchers believe that the use of sunscreen, wearing a hat to protect the eyes, and adding extra minutes to the daily commute to work each day will provide relief to those who are susceptible to seasonal affective disorder. The positive results of exposing oneself to the sun for extended periods have been linked to an overall decrease in depressive symptoms.
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