Seasonal affective disorder: a closer look at this seasonal depression

Seasonal affective disorder: a closer look at this seasonal depression

Do you have the feeling that your mood depends on the season? If so, you may suffer from a disease known as a seasonal affective disorder (SAD). This condition can cause depression -like symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain and low energy. While most people experience some mood swings in winter, those with SAD experience intensive and omnipresent symptoms that can disturb their daily life. In this article we take a closer look at SAD, including its symptoms, causes, risk factors, diagnosis, treatments and when to seek help.

What is a seasonal affective disorder (SAD)?

seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a kind of depression associated with certain seasons, most often during the winter months. According to the American Psychiatric Association (APA), SAD is a "recurring severe depressive disorder with a seasonal pattern", which affects up to 6 % of the population in North America

Symptoms of SAD

The symptoms from SAD can vary from person to person, but typically include tiredness, irritability, loss of interest in activities, difficulties of concentration, unrest and low energy. In some people, appetite and weight changes, sleep disorders and feelings of hopelessness or feelings of guilt can also occur. In addition, many people with SAD may find it difficult to wake up in the morning, or they have an increased need for sleep.

causes and risk factors of SAD

The exact cause of SAD is still unclear, but experts believe that changes in daylight and melatonin level in the brain could be related. Melatonin is a hormone that helps regulate sleep and it is assumed that the lack of sunlight can disrupt its production during the winter months. In addition, some research results indicate that SAD can be associated with genetic factors, since some people tend to develop the disorder if they have a family history.

other potential risk factors for sad are age, gender and place. Studies have shown that SAD appears most often in women between the ages of 15 and 55 and more often appears in people in northern widths.

Diagnosis and treatment of SAD

If you believe that you are suffering from SAD, it is important to speak to your doctor or psychologist. You can help you determine whether you have the disorder and offer you adequate treatment.

The most common treatment for SAD is light therapy or phototherapy. During this therapy, a person is exposed to light light every day for a certain time. This therapy is intended to imitate natural sunlight and can help regulate the circadian rhythm of the body or the sleep-wake cycle. In addition, psychotherapy, medication and changes to lifestyle can also be used to treat SAD. Hell therapy can Be finished at with a Hell Kasten data-offset-key = "fQlor-113-0">, which can His bought online or in shops . When use a Hell data-offset-key = "fQlor-127-0"> Kasten , Is important to follow Data-offset-key = "FQLOR-134-0"> The directions Eng , as to Much Exposition to can harmful . additionally , es is important to increase your to of course sunlight . these can finished of editions more Zeit outside every Tag , or data offset-key = "fQlor-175-0"> production simple changes as opening the Data-offset-key = "FQLOR-182-0"> Curtains or blind S to Of course Hell in your Data-offset-key = "FQLOR-192-0"> Heimat .

Alternative treatments for SAD

In addition to traditional treatments, there are also a number of alternative treatments that can be an advantage for people with SAD. This includes yoga, meditation, herbal supplements and acupuncture. Although these treatments have not been extensively examined, some research results indicate that they can be helpful in reducing SAD symptoms.

when you should find help

If you believe that you suffer from SAD, it is important that you turn to a psychologist. You can help you find the best treatment for your individual needs and offer you the support and resources you need to treat your symptoms.

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