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Are You SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder)

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As the holidays quickly approach, you would think that it should be the happiest time of the year. Unfortunately, for some of my patients, it is the toughest time of the year, especially as the first day of winter is right around the corner. For those with depression symptoms that occur around the same time each year, the diagnosis of Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, comes to mind.

In most cases, SAD occurs in late fall or early winter, like the first day of winter, which is the day with the least amount of light for the entire year. Typically, these SAD symptoms last through the winter and improve the next spring.

Symptoms of SAD include the urge to socially withdraw from others, a desire to be alone, low energy, excessive sleep, craving carbohydrates, weight gain, and irritability.

Who is at risk for SAD? Risk factors include younger people (SAD even diagnosed in children and teens), having a personal history of depression, having a family history of depression, and being female.

There are a variety of treatments for SAD. You may have heard of these special type of light boxes that can be purchased. Experts recommend exposure of 10,000 Lux of cool-white fluorescent light for about 20-60 minutes, which is about 20 times more intense than ordinary indoor lighting. Other treatments include medication therapy and traditional counseling and therapy.

When should someone see a doctor? It’s normal to have an occasional day when you feel down during the winter. However, if you feel down for many days in a row or start to lack motivation to do your normal daily activities, this may be a time to visit your doctor. Very worrisome risk factors include significant withdrawal from social activities, using alcohol to help with sleep or with depression, and feelings of hopelessness or thoughts of suicide. (If you know of anyone at risk of suicide, please get them to the Emergency Room or share with them the National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 800-273-8255)

So, as the holidays get closer, please recognize that for some people, they may be having difficulties with depression. recognize the signs and symptoms, and if needed, get them to see their Family Doctor as soon as they can.