Seasonal affective disorder

Do the bleak winter months get you down more than you think they should? You may have seasonal affective disorder or SAD. It is a mood disorder that happens every year at the same time. A less common form occurs in the summer and begins in late spring or early summer and ends in autumn. But in general, seasonal affective disorder starts in autumn or winter and ends in spring or early summer.

What causes seasonal affective disorder?

There are two seasonal patterns with SAD. One starts in the autumn and continues through the winter, and the other starts in late spring or early summer. The autumn-onset type, often referred to as "winter depression," is better known and easier to recognise - and we know more about it than we know about its counterpart.

Hormones manufactured deep in the brain automatically trigger attitudinal changes at certain times of year. Experts believe that SAD is related to these hormonal changes. One theory is that reduced sunlight during autumn and winter leads to reduced production of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that has a soothing, calming effect. The result of there not being enough serotonin is feelings of depression along with symptoms of fatigue, carbohydrate craving, and weight gain.

Because foods high in carbohydrates (chips, bread, pasta) boost serotonin, it is thought that they have a calming, soothing affect on the body and mind.

SAD usually starts in young adulthood and is more common in females than in males. Some people with SAD experience very mild symptoms and feel out of sorts or irritable. Others have debilitating symptoms that interfere with relationships and productivity.

Because the lack of enough daylight during wintertime is related to SAD, it is seldom found in countries within 30 degrees of the Equator where there is plenty of sunshine all the year round.

What are the symptoms of seasonal affective disorder during winter?

People with SAD have many of the normal signs of depression, including:

• Decreased levels of energy
• Difficulty concentrating
• Fatigue
• Increase in appetite
• Increased desire to be alone
• Increased need for sleep
• Weight gain

What are the signs of seasonal affective disorder during summer?

Symptoms of summer SAD include:

• Decreased appetite
• Trouble sleeping
• Weight loss

How is seasonal affective disorder diagnosed?

It is very important that you do not diagnose yourself. If you have symptoms of depression, see your doctor for a thorough assessment. Sometimes, physical problems can cause depression. But at other times, symptoms of SAD are part of a more complex mental health problem. A health professional should be the one to determine the level of depression and recommend the right form of treatment.

How is seasonal affective disorder treated?

There are different treatments for SAD, depending on the severity of the symptoms. Many doctors recommend that patients with SAD try to get outside early in the morning to increase their exposure to natural light. If this is impossible because of the dark winter months, antidepressant medication, cognitive behavioural therapy, light therapy (phototherapy), or a combination of these may help.