What is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)?
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs at approximately the same time each year. This is usually as the warmer, brighter summer weather begins to give way to winter's darker, wetter weather. Many people experience 'Winter Blues', but SAD is more severe than that and is thought to affect approximately 2% of the population.
The symptoms of SAD are similar to depression. They can include difficulty sleeping or restlessness, increased irritability, a low mood that does not seem to lift, lethargy, and a sense that many activities are less appealing than they once were or even pointless.
SAD is believed to be caused by the effects that a seasonal reduction in daylight can have on our brains. This can include reduced melatonin and serotonin levels, essential hormones for feeling awake and happy, and an adverse effect on the body's internal clock.
If you think that you may be suffering from SAD, then it might be a good idea to get in touch with your G.P., who will usually be able to assess your state of health and offer a choice of recommended treatments. These may include self-help activities such as exercise and more specific treatments such as light therapy (exposure to a particular type of artificial light), talking therapy, or medication.
For more information about the seasonal affective disorder, have a look at these web links: