Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D)
What is Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D.)?
Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D.), also known as "winter depression" or "winter blues" is a pattern of seasonal depression, occurring at the same time each year beginning in late fall or early winter months and ending in spring.
Who is at risk for S.A.D.?
The prevalence of S.A.D. appears to vary with latitude, age and sex.
- Latitude : At higher latitudes (farther north), there are more cases of S.A.D. Since sunlight decreases with higher latitude, the length of day appears to be a factor. It also tends to be colder in the winter, with harsher conditions and storms.
- Age: Younger persons are at higher risk.
- Gender: Women comprise 60-90% of individuals with S.A.D.
What are some of the symptoms of S.A.D.?
- Increased sadness
- Higher irritability
- Increased anxiety
- Increased appetite including craving of carbohydrates
- Increased weight
- Increased sleep, lower quality of rest
- Lack of energy
- Problems concentrating
- Social and interpersonal strain
- Menstrual difficulties
How is S.A.D. diagnosed?
Physicians, nurse practitioners and mental health providers can diagnose S.A.D., based on criteria developed by the American Psychiatric Association.
For an official diagnosis, you can make an appointment with a health provider at Health Services or a Counselor at the Counseling Center.
How can S.A.D. be treated?
Research shows that light therapy or exposure to light, is an effective treatment and is usually administered using a light box. Light boxes are made of a set of fluorescent bulbs or tubes that are covered with a plastic screen that helps block out potentially harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays that can cause cataracts and skin problems.
Depending on how severely a person is affected, dietary changes, regular exercise, psychotherapy and the use of antidepressant medications can be effective, when used in conjunction with light therapy.
Health Services offers light therapy for students, staff and faculty at no charge. If you think you might have Seasonal Affective Disorder make an appointment to see a medical provider at Health Services (603-862-2856) or a counselor at the Counseling Center (603-862-2090) for diagnosis and recommendation for treatment. Diagnosis is not required to use light therapy at Health Services.
Resources:
- Rosenthal, N.E. (1998) Winter blues. and Barr, B.C. (2000).
- Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research
- Psychology Information Online
