Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Know About Diagnosis & Treatment

Many people also get affected with the change of seasons as they experience a change in their moods and energy. This change is more significant for some people and results in a condition called Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). This form of depression is usually experienced in the winter season although there is a rare form that can occur in the summer season.

It is important to understand the symptoms, causes, and methods of SAD or seasonal affective disorder treatments to ensure that people do not suffer from depression throughout the year.

Seasonal Affective Disorder: What is it?

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a form of depression that is characterized by the recurrence of its symptoms at certain times of the year. It is a condition in which an individual experiences feelings of sadness, low energy, and lack of motivation during certain times of the year. The most common type of SAD is winter depression that occurs in late fall or early winter and ends in the spring.

Symptoms of Winter SAD

• Depression is a persistent low mood or feeling of sadness or despair
• Tiredness and loss of energy
• Increased hunger and carbohydrate cravings
• Weight gain
• Difficulty concentrating
• Irritability and social withdrawal

These symptoms may be mild or severe depending on the person, but it is essential to pay attention to them and consult a doctor for seasonal affective disorder treatments if they last for a long time.

Factors that Contribute to SAD

• Disruption of circadian rhythms: Variations in daylight can disrupt the body’s circadian rhythm, which can result in hormonal dysregulation of melatonin and serotonin.
• Reduced sunlight exposure: Vitamin D and serotonin production can be affected by the reduced amount of sunlight during the winter season and this can lead to depressive symptoms.
• Genetic and biological factors: Studies show that SAD may be caused by genetic factors and an imbalance of brain chemicals such as serotonin and melatonin.

Diagnosis and Treatment Options

It is, therefore, important to consult a professional so that the right diagnosis and treatment plan is made. A mental health specialist, for example, the best psychologist or psychiatrist, can determine whether the symptoms are due to some other condition.

• Light therapy: Light therapy, another of the most effective treatments for SAD, involves exposure to bright artificial light which simulates the outdoor light.
• Psychotherapy: CBT and other forms of psychotherapy can assist the individual in developing coping strategies and learning how to monitor and change negative thoughts.
• Medication: Some doctors may also prescribe antidepressants to help in the depression and anxiety treatment but this is usually in conjunction with light therapy and/or psychotherapy.

Early Intervention: Why it Matters

It is important to understand that Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is not a short-lived issue and requires immediate intervention. SAD can cause adverse effects on an individual’s daily life, relationships, and others.

• Late intervention can result in more severe symptoms and an increased likelihood of developing major depressive disorder.
• Early detection of the condition can help avoid further progression and impact on different spheres of life.
• Early intervention enables the application of proper treatments like light therapy and psychotherapy to reduce symptoms and enhance function.

Overcoming the Stigma: Seeking Help for SAD

However, there is still a large negative perception of mental health disorders such as SAD. There is a need to fight this stigma and engage in advocacy that seeks to educate people on the need to seek help.

• SAD is a real medical condition that needs proper depression and anxiety treatment as any other physical condition.
• It is important to understand that the act of visiting a mental health professional is not a sign of weakness.
• Early intervention is critical for mental health as it will help to avoid further complications and promote better life.

Ways to Help a Person with SAD

• Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a mental health issue that affects individuals during the winter months, and it is important to help the person you care about in the recovery process.
• Learn as much as you can about SAD and the symptoms that may be affecting your loved one.
• Remind them that they can consult a professional and/or ask them to go to the appointment with them.
• Create a safe space without any negative judgments where they will not hesitate to share their feelings.
• Encourage the person to be involved in activities that contribute to mental health including exercise or socializing or other hobbies.

Try to be patient and tolerant as the process of recovery from SAD can take some time.

Conclusion

SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) is a type of depression that occurs during specific seasons of the year and it can be treated. If they are aware of the signs, causes, and ways to treat this condition, such as consulting qualified and the best psychologist like Dr. Dipti Yadav, they can manage their symptoms and prevent seasonal depression from affecting their overall mental health.

About Author:

The author is a mental health expert who is interested in spreading awareness and offering support for people who struggle with SAD and other mood disorders. As an individual who is well aware of the challenges that people face, she wants to educate and encourage the readers through her writing.