Seasonal affective disorder

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD), also known as winter depression, is a type of depression that comes and goes in a seasonal pattern. SAD is sometimes known as "winter depression" because the symptoms are usually more apparent and more severe during the winter.

Symptoms

The symptoms of SAD often begin in the fall as the days start getting shorter. They're typically most severe in the months of December, January, and February. SAD often goes away in the spring and summer. If it doesn't, you may have a different type of depression.

Symptoms of SAD can include:

• a persistent low mood
• a loss of pleasure or interest in normal everyday activities
• irritability
• feelings of despair, guilt and worthlessness
• feeling lethargic (lacking in energy) and sleepy during the day
• sleeping for longer than normal and finding it hard to get up in the morning
• craving carbohydrates and gaining weight

Causes

The exact cause of SAD isn't fully understood, but it's often linked to reduced exposure to sunlight during the shorter autumn and winter days. The main theory is that a lack of sunlight might stop a part of the brain called the hypothalamus working properly, which may affect the production of melatonin, serotonin, and the body's internal clock (circadian rhythm).

Treatment

Treatments for SAD can include light therapy, talking therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy or counseling, and antidepressant medication.

See also

• Depression (mood)
• Bipolar disorder
• Major depressive disorder
• Dysthymia
• Circadian rhythm sleep disorder

External links

• National Institute of Mental Health - Seasonal Affective Disorder

Seasonal affective disorder Resources
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