Exposure to a healthy amount of sunlight can be very beneficial to your well-being. For many people, the shorter days and longer nights of autumn and winter can be not just disappointing, but depressing to the point of illness.
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of major depressive disorder with a seasonal pattern, which is thought to be caused by chemical changes in the brain in response to the change in seasons, combined with vitamin D deficiency from less sun in the winter. While spring-onset SAD (also known as “summer depression”) can also occur, fall-onset SAD (“winter depression”) is more common, usually starting around young adulthood.
Like other forms of clinical depression, despite its acronym SAD is not just sadness or “having the winter blues”: it is a medical condition that can have serious consequences and can be treated with the proper attention. If you experience symptoms only during the autumn and winter such as —
● Feeling depressed and/or anxious all or most of the day, every day, for at least 2 weeks
● Loss of interest in pleasurable activities
● Withdrawal from social activities
● Difficulty concentrating or remembering
● Headaches and muscle aches
● Irritability or agitation
● Fatigue/oversleeping/low energy
● Carbohydrate cravings and overeating
● Thoughts of hopelessness, death, or suicide
— you should talk to your healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms and whether treatment is right for you. SAD can be diagnosed after a mental health exam, though physical tests such as bloodwork may be recommended to rule out other causes of your symptoms. Treatments for SAD can include:
● Light therapy and/or vitamin D supplements
● Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a type of talk therapy
● Antidepressant medication
Ask your healthcare provider for more information.
If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact us anytime at info@gravityintprog.com. Stay safe and healthy!
