Seasonal Affective Disorder

Molly S. McLaughlin, MA, LMFT

As the temperature drops and the days become shorter, many notice a growing sense of sadness or despair. It might become more difficult to get out of bed in the morning and easier to put on a few extra pounds. This phenomenon is often referred to as “the winter blues”. Although some reaction to seasonal change is normal, some people experience an exaggerated form of these symptoms. Their depression and lack of energy become debilitating, negatively affecting work and relationships. The clinical term for this condition is Seasonal Affective Disorder.

 

Seasonal Affective Disorder (also called SAD) is a subtype of unipolar depression and bipolar depression with symptoms that begin and end around the same time each year. Winter depression, the most prevalent form of SAD, manifests with symptoms of major depression typically starting in the fall and persisting into the early spring. A rare form of SAD causes depression in the spring or early summer. Women are 80% more likely than men to suffer from the disorder and although it can occur in children it is usually first diagnosed in adults between the ages of 20 and 30.  The prevalence of SAD is a given year is around 5% of any given population depending on the geographical location. Generally speaking, the further one is from the equator, the greater their risk for seasonal depression.

Symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder include;

1) Feelings of sadness and hopelessness

2) Loss of interest in things that used to be enjoyable

3) Social withdrawal

4) Excessive sleep

5) Fatigue

6) Irritability or moodiness

7) Overeating, carbohydrate cravings, weight gain

8) Sexual problems/loss of libido

The cause of SAD remains unclear. Many experts believe that the lack of sunlight during the winter months is a major factor. Lack of sunlight can lead to an increase in the hormone melatonin which helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle. It may also interfere with the brain chemical serotonin which affects mood. A deficiency in vitamin D has also been linked to SAD.  Vitamin D is naturally manufactured by the skin when exposed to sunlight. In the winter months in the northern half of the United States, the sun is not strong enough for the skin to make vitamin D.

 

How is SAD treated?

 

Light Therapy - is a common treatment for SAD. It involves sitting close to a special lamp that emits simulated sunshine for 30 to 60 minutes each day.

 

Medication - Antidepressants are often prescribed to treat SAD to help restore    balance to the brain’s serotonin levels.

 

Psychotherapy - Even though SAD is thought to be a biochemical illness, negative thought patterns and behaviors may make symptoms worse. If so, a specific type of psychotherapy called cognitive behavioral therapy can help you identify and change thoughts and behaviors that are working against you.

 

Many people find implementing the following behaviors beneficial in improving and regulating their mood; regular exercise, socializing (even if it takes some effort), eating healthy, adding omega 3 fatty acids and vitamin D supplements, and minimizing or eliminating alcohol, caffeine and sugar.

 

Seasonal Affective Disorder is a serious illness. If left untreated, it can lead to suicidal thoughts and substance abuse. If you believe you may suffer from SAD, contact a mental health professional for an assessment.

 

Molly McLaughlin, MA, LMFT is a psychotherapist with Central Wisconsin Counseling Associates in Wisconsin Rapids. Licensed in marriage and family therapy, she enjoys working with couples, families and individuals of all ages. She has been practicing in the local area for almost 15 years.