As the seasons change and the days grow shorter, some people may develop symptoms of depression. Seasonal depression, also known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), is a form of depression that occurs based on seasonal changes in sunlight. The Lighthouse Care Center of Conway says SAD symptoms include: increased sadness and anxiety; loss of energy; changes in appetite; cravings for sweets and carbohydrates; depression lifts when light increases; symptoms occur over consecutive winters; and increased need for sleep.
Researchers say seasonal depression is thought to be associated with the hormone melatonin. Melatonin is produced at increased levels in the darkness. SAD symptoms are decreased when exposure to light is increased. One treatment is Bright Light Therapy. It's basically sitting in front of an artificial light to stimulate sunlight. Other treatments include changing your daily routine to include more time outside and and rearranging living a and work spaces to receive maximum light exposure.
Certainly consult your doctor or mental health professional if your symptoms interfere with your every day life. Again, this this information is from the Lighthouse Care Center of Conway. For more information call 843-347-8871.
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