SAD a Common Winter Health Concern

Depression is an illness just like diabetes or heart disease. It is neither a mood nor a personality trait that can be modified at will, contrary to what some people perceive. According to pharmaceutical giant Eli Lilly and Company, more than 18 million people in America alone suffer from from some type of depression, and one in eight persons need treatment for depression during his or her lifetime.

One type of depression that can occur this time of year is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). It occurs primarily during the winter months when the hours of daylight diminish and the hours of darkness are greater. Among the worst months for SAD are January and February. Typically, with SAD the symptoms of depression virtually vanish come the spring months when the ratio between light and dark become better balanced. However, there are some exceptions to the rule. Some people have signs and symptoms of depression in the spring and summer, often being referred to reverse SAD.

SAD is more than just a case of cabin fever. This condition induces feelings of lethargy, sleep problems, irritability, and cravings for starches or sweets. Although the exact numbers are unknown, it’s estimated that about 6 percent of Americans suffer from winter SAD, and another 10 percent to 20 percent may experience mild SAD symptoms, according to The Mayo Clinic. The disorder usually begins during adolescence. It’s also more common in women than in men, as are most forms of depression.

The exact cause of SAD is unknown, but many doctors suspect a correlation between sunlight and the production of melotonin, a hormone produced by the pineal gland. Melotonin regulates the body’s internal clock - darkness induces the production of more melotonin to assist with falling to sleep and “hibernating.” The long nights of winter may cause melotonin production to be more pronounced, hence leading to the symptoms of fatigue and listlessness of SAD. This makes SAD unique from other types of depression, which are thought to be mainly attributed to an imbalance in the brains neurotransmitters serotonin and norephinepherine.

While many people experience blue moods once in a while, if this feeling is prolonged, affecting sleep or eating patterns, and compromising productivity, help should be sought out. If thoughts of suicide are present, contact a medical professional or hospital immediately.

Treatment for SAD may include a combination of psychotherapy and medication. Some have also found that light therapy - exposure to a special bright light that simulates natural sunlight - can also be effective in resetting the circadian rhythms that regulate a person’s internal clock.