Do you feel out of sorts? Are you finding it hard to join in on all the holiday enthusiasm that seems to be everywhere you turn, try as you might? You may be suffering from SAD or seasonal affective disorder, a type of depression and depressive disorder that follows a recurrent seasonal pattern and is especially common during the shorter, darker days of winter.
The signs and symptoms of SAD are consistent with a major depression in terms of the following:
— Feeling depressed most of the day, nearly every day.
— Losing interest in activities you once enjoyed.
— Experiencing changes in appetite or weight.
— Having problems with sleep.
— Feeling sluggish or agitated.
— Feeling hopeless or worthless.
— Having difficulty concentrating.
— Having frequent thoughts of death or suicide.
What stands out differently in SAD is that there is a pattern of onset and remission of depressive symptoms during particular times of the year. In many cases, the episodes begin in the fall or winter and lessen in the spring. It is also possible to have episodes in the summer. When diagnosing SAD, the clinician will look to see whether the depressive episodes occur during specific seasons (i.e., only during the fall/winter months or the spring/summer months) for at least a two-year period, without any non-seasonal episodes occurring during this period.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, millions of American adults may suffer from SAD; however, many may not know they have the condition. It appears that SAD occurs more often in women than in men and SAD is more common in those living farther north, where daylight hours are shorter in the winter. For example, people living in New England may be more likely to develop SAD than people living in Florida.
How do you know if you or someone you know may have SAD?
Depression can have severe impacts on your daily life, so it is strongly encouraged that you seek out a qualified professional to evaluate your symptoms and officially diagnose your depression. Depression is a medical condition that can be treated, and it is important to have it treated in safe and effective ways. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness. Psychotherapy and other resources can help provide tools and skills that can help you or your loved ones manage symptoms. Ask a health care provider for more information and resources today. Remember, you are not alone.
This Health Talk was written by Sheila Sharrow, manager of Rutland Regional Behavior Health at Rutland Regional Medical Center.