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How Do I Know If I Have Seasonal Affective Disorder?

Writer's picture: gavin606gavin606

Updated: Dec 2, 2022


Everyone knows about the blues. The feeling of being sad, gloomy, or down in the dumps for no apparent reason is commonly experienced by people of all cultures, locations, and demographic groups. But when these feelings persistently occur at certain times of the year or are triggered by specific activities at those times (like during autumn or winter or while ice-skating), it could be indicative of a seasonal affective disorder – also known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). This type of depression has to do with changes in seasons and usually begins to manifest approximately seven days after the first day of fall. If you experience some or all of the symptoms outlined below more than once every year, you might want to consult your doctor to rule out SAD. So how do you know if you have SAD?

What are the symptoms of SAD?


The most common signs of the seasonal affective disorder is a strong desire to sleep and eat more, changes in eating and sleeping habits, feelings of lethargy and fatigue, decreased sex drive, irritability, cravings for carbohydrates, increased craving for starchy foods, increased alcohol and tobacco use, trouble concentrating, and a feeling of sadness. Some people experience extreme mood swings while others might experience anxiety, panic attacks, and bouts of uncontrollable anger. It should be noted that these symptoms are not exclusive to SAD and can also be indicative of other forms of depression. The only way to tell if you have SAD is to speak with your doctor and describe your symptoms and how they manifest themselves. Generally speaking, if your symptoms occur during the fall or winter months, have been happening for over a year, and are disrupting your ability to work and live a normal life, then it is possible that you are suffering from SAD. Other than seasonal affective disorder, there are other types of depression that can also manifest themselves in these ways and should be ruled out before a diagnosis is given.

How is Seasonal Affective Disorder different from regular depression?


The primary difference between seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and regular depression is the timing. The seasonal affective disorder is triggered by the changing of the seasons. Seasonal affective disorder can happen at any time of the year, but is most common in the fall, when the days are shorter, or in the winter when the days are shorter, and the weather is often cloudy and cold. Other depression occurs all year long, although it may be worse during certain times of the year.

How can you treat seasonal affective disorder?


The seasonal affective disorder is not a fatal disease, nor is it contagious. It is, however, treatable—most people with SAD who seek treatment experience a reduction in symptoms. Treatment for SAD can include light therapy, psychotherapy, antidepressants, or a combination of all three. Light therapy often involves using a special light box, which emits bright light and is designed to increase one’s serotonin levels. Treatment with light therapy usually lasts for 30 minutes and is done in the morning when the body’s cortisol levels are low. Psychotherapy and antidepressants can help address the root causes of SAD and can be especially effective when used in conjunction with light therapy.

Other treatment options for SAD


Healthy and nutritious diet - Eating a healthy and nutritious diet can help you reduce the onset of seasonal affective disorder and help with general depression. A healthy diet is rich in fish, fruits and vegetables, and whole grains, and low in saturated fats, refined sugars, and alcohol. Eating a well-balanced diet can help boost your mood and energy levels, lower depression, and anxiety, and promote better mental health. You can also look into taking supplements to promote better mental health. Exercise - Moderate exercise has been shown to reduce feelings of anxiety and depression and can also help with insomnia. You don’t have to do strenuous exercise or go to the gym five times a week to see benefits either. Simply walking for 30 minutes a day can make a significant difference. Social Interaction - One of the best ways to combat seasonal affective disorder is to be social. Being around people you trust, love, and enjoy can help reduce feelings of loneliness, isolation, and depression. It is also a wonderful way to promote better mental health.

Conclusion


The most important thing to remember when it comes to seasonal affective disorder is that it is a treatable condition. There are many ways to treat SAD and reduce symptoms, including light therapy, social interaction, a healthy diet, and exercise. If you think you are suffering from a seasonal affective disorder, you should see your doctor for a diagnosis.

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