Definition Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a form of depression or mood disorder in which people of normal mental health experience

depressive symptoms during the winter months. People diagnosed with SAD often cite the mood shift as occurring during late fall, as natural sunlight begins decreasing and lasts throughout the duration of the winter. For this reason SAD is more commonly referred to as the winter blues. SAD is known to affect as many as 6 out of every 10 people in North America. An additional 10-20% of the population may experience more subtle mood changes related to the seasons known as Subsyndromal Seasonal Affective Disorder (SSAD). Causes The most widely agreed upon explanation for the cause of SAD is the general lack of exposure to natural sunlight during the winter months. It has been proposed that the deprivation of sunlight leads to a drop in serotonin, causing the feeling of the blues. In many cases the feeling of depression intensifies once the holiday season has ended. Aside from the lack of natural light people often find themselves, their finances and belt-lines significantly stretched as a direct result of holiday gastro-economic overindulgence.

For more SAD Information Contact AdvanceMed Hanford Main Clinic 1979 Snyder Street Richland, WA 99354 200 West Clinic 2719WB Scheduling 376-6251 or 373-9258

Seasonal Affective Disorder

Jaren Scott

Treatment The simplest and most effective treatment is exposure to bright artificial light. It has been shown that bright-light therapy relieves symptoms in roughly two thirds of people with SAD due to the effect of simulating natural sunlight. Bright light therapy products are available and cost from $200-500. Experts recommend that products rated at 10,000 lux be used. It is also extremely important that the device filters out the harmful ultraviolet rays that may be produced.

Questions to ask about SAD How do you know this is SAD? How serious is it or could it become? Should I see a phychologist or psychiatrist? What type of treatment is recommended? Will you be prescribing any medications? What are the side effects? Where can I purchase a phototherapy light box? When to Seek Medical Care Feelings of extreme sadness or emptiness Inability to carry on normal activities Persistent loss of energy or increased weakness Unexplained change in appetite for food Changes in behavior interfering with daily life

Origins SAD has been observed in many species exhibiting limited physical activity in winter months. The condition is known as a survival tactic in response to the reduction of availabe food and increased difficulty of surving the cold weather. Hibernation occurs as a result of this effect in some animals. It has been proposed that SAD is an evolved adaptation amongst humans that is a remnant of hibernation. Food was often scarce during most of human prehistory and the low moods experienced by early humans would have been useful in reducing the need for caloric intake and escaping starvation. Symptoms Depressed mood Loss of interest in enjoyable activities Low energy and fatigue Feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness Poor concentration, indeciseveness Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide Sleeping more than usual Craving for sugar, starchy foods, or alcohol Weight gain Problems with family, friends, or work Irritability Conflicts with other people Heaviness of arms and legs Interpersonal difficulties Decreased productivity Behavior disturbances (in children)

The bright light source should be placed at eyelevel. In order to work light must enter the eyes, although it is not recommended to stare directly into the light. An approved device should not harm the eyes if used as intended. Exposure lengths of 30 minutes daily to 10,000 lux should be enough to relieve symptoms. At times greater exposure lengths may be required. Symptoms usually begin to improve within a few days. Therapy should be continued until normal outdoor activity is reincorporated into your lifestylle. Before undergoing or adjusting any therapy you should consult your health care provider.

Feelings of wanting to die or hurting yourself