As a new winter season is approaching, some people will be in a bad mood because they miss sunny days but some will experience a strong mood change, something more deeper than usual 'I wish it is summer again' mood.
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During the winter months, when there is less sunlight, seasonal affective disorder (SAD - very good acronym) takes its toll on a number of people. SAD is different from usual down feelings because that's a type of depression that may become a very serious condition that lasts several months and may make life of an affected person very difficult.
SAD symptoms range from sad and anxious feelings; to helplessness, irritability, fatigue, difficulty in focusing, making decisions and sleeping; all the way down to change in weight and thoughts of suicide.
It's important to know that not everyone with SAD has the same symptoms but if the phase of bad mood lasts, we should take SAD into account. Since SAD is depression, it is very important to take it seriously and we must not assume that it's just "winter blues", as some call it.
We don't know the exact reason that causes SAD, but there are a few factors we suspect contribute to the condition. The reduced level of sunlight may cause a drop in serotonin and since it affects mood that may trigger bad feelings and even depression.
Circadian rhythm or biological clock also changes because nights are longer, days are shorter, and the body is trying to adapt to a new situation. Less light can also change the level of melatonin which plays an important role connected to mood and sleep.
To diagnose SAD and to be sure it's not just a brief mood change, a several tests may be required. The first is a psychological evaluation which will be used to see patient's overall state, thoughts and feelings. After that, is a suspicion arises, there will be a physical exam to rule out possible physical problems that may cause depression. The doctor may also do some lab tests to be sure the problem is of a psychological nature.
All those tests, especially psychological evaluation, will be conducted carefully because there are other conditions that may have similar symptoms.
How to prevent SAD and what your doctor can do? First, you may help yourself to a degree with a few simple steps. First, open blinds and let in as much light as possible: people that live in dark conditions tend to develop bad mood. Then, go out. It doesn't matter are you walking for an hour or just sitting in the park, just go out and enjoy light - even if there are clouds up there. Exercise. That will reduce stress and that in turn helps against SAD.
You doctor may recommend light therapy, phototherapy, and that's good enough for approximately 50% of patients. Just sitting in front of a special lamp that emits light close to nature is enough for some people to recover from SAD.
If that isn't working, antidepressant will step in and they are used if the condition is worrisome, with serious bad mood episodes. Some patients are taking antidepressant every year at the start of the winter season and keep their SAD under control. And, of course, since this is a form of depression, some talk can be of help. No matter is patient talking with doctor or friends, it is important not to stay alone in a dark room with dark thoughts. ■