Seasonal+Affective+Disorder

Seasonal Affective Disorder media type="youtube" key="SU756vUoGB4" height="385" width="640"  The changes in weather affect many people’s moods. With summer lifting our spirits, and winter making it hard to even leave the house. With these noticeable changes in moods, it often doesn’t affect our ability with our daily tasks, however, some people develop a type of depression that follows the seasons that can last from autumn to string, this condition is called Seasonal Affective Disorder. This condition has been known for more than 150 years, but was recognized as a disorder in the 1980’s

What are the symptoms of seasonal affective disorder?
Depression Emotional episodes Tiredness Lack of sleep Trouble concentrating Body aches Over eating Weight gain Loss of sex drive Decreased activity level Thoughts of suicide

 SAD seems to develop from the lack of light during the winter months, creating changes in the brain chemical. The reasoning for this effect is still being studied, but studies have shown that low vitamin D levels are associated with the Seasonal affective disorder, as well as other types of depression.

Who’s is at risk? In Ontario it is estimated between 2 to 3% of the population may be experiencing Seasonal Affective Disorder, and another 15% have experienced less severe symptoms, also known as the winter blues. SAD is also more common in women than men. Studies have shown that SAD is common in the northern countries because the days are shorter, there for reducing day light. SAD tends to affect people who are in their 20’s but children and teenagers can experience SAD. How is SAD Treated? If you are experiencing severe symptoms of seasonal affective disorder such as lack of sleep, appetite, and or thoughts of suicide, it is important to seek professional help as soon as possible. Important first steps would be to increasing your exposure to light, monitoring your diet, sleep patterns and exercise levels. For people who are more severely affected by SAD, antidepressant medications are safe and effective in relieving symptoms. Counselling and therapy, especially short-term treatments such as cognitive-behavioural therapy, may also be helpful for winter depression.

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