29/10/2024
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Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a mood disorder that shows up with symptoms like:
* feeling down,
* lack of motivation,
* trouble finding joy in things,
* feeling tired and low on energy,
* issues with focus,
* anxiety,
* changes in appetite and sleep problems.
To be considered as SAD, these symptoms need to stick around for at least 2 weeks and show up at the same time each year, for 2-3 years in a row.
People more likely to experience SAD include:
* women,
* those who spend a lot of time indoors,
* people sensitive to low sunlight,
* those with a history of mood disorders (like depression).
SAD might be linked to changes in how your body produces melatonin, dopamine, and serotonin due to less sunlight. But it can also flare up in the spring.
SAD is treated with:
* phototherapy,
* psychotheraphy,
* medications,
along with things like:
* regular exercise,
* vitamin D supplements,
* a balanced diet.
If you think you might have seasonal affective disorder, reach out to a mental health specialist or your primary care doctor.
