During the winter months, some people are afflicted with Winter Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), which may explain why people get depressed and blue during the winter months when the days tend to be short and the snow blocks the sun.
Winter weather is not the most encouraging environment for getting outdoors and exercising, but outdoor activity can help to counteract the symptoms of sadness and depression that come along with this seasonal disorder.
People with winter depression may require medication and treatment for the condition. Patients can improve their mood by taking steps such as getting outdoors in the sunshine, exercising, managing stress, making their living environment light and bright, socializing and taking care of their general health.
Causes and Risks of Winter SAD
The cause of SAD is unknown but it is likely that there are many mental health conditions that contribute. Factors such as age, genetics and the body’s natural chemical makeup can play a role in the disorder. According to the Mayo Clinic, researchers suspect culprits include the circadian rhythm, melatonin and serotonin. People who live in the northern regions are at higher risk at developing SAD.
- Circadian Rhythm is the body’s internal clock that lets an individual know when to sleep and wake. The reduced level of sunlight in the winter may disrupt the natural body clock and cause depression.
- Melatonin is a sleep-related hormone that has been linked to depression. The body usually produces more melatonin during long winter nights.
- Serotonin is a natural brain chemical, or neurotransmitter, that affects mood. Reduced sunlight has been linked to a drop in serotonin, which may lead to depression.
SAD Symptoms
The Mayo Clinic website lists the symptoms of winter depression (SAD):
- Depression
- Hopelessness
- Anxiety
- Energy loss
- Social withdrawal
- Lack of interest in activities that were once enjoyed
- Changes in appetite including a craving for high carbohydrate foods
- Weight gain
- Difficulty concentrating and in processing information
Treatment for SAD
Mild cases of Seasonal Affective Disorder may be self managed by taking measures to spend time outdoors in the sunlight, exercising, and sitting close to the windows while at home or in the office and using lightbulbs that simulate daylight.
Treatments for SAD include light therapy, medications and psychotherapy.
- Light Therapy is still considered an unproven method, as it has yet to be approved by the FDA. Light therapy mimics outdoor light to cause a biochemical change in the brain to lift mood.
- Medications, such as antidepressants may help people with severe symptoms. A doctor needs to be consulted for the appropriate prescription.
- Psychotherapy may help with the behavior issues that come with negative thoughts and to find ways to manage the stress that comes with the disorder.
Seasonal affective disorder may be managed individually, or with the help of medical treatment. Patients with SAD may feel better if they take control to manage the condition by sticking to a treatment plan, making the home light and bright, getting outdoors into available sunshine, exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet, getting adequate rest, managing stress, socializing and connecting with community and possibly taking a vacation to a sunny climate.
Information is not intended as medical advice. People with a medical or mental condition should consult a physician for appropriate treatment.
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