Into the light
Bev Cress
Originally published 01:14 p.m., January 8, 2008
Updated 01:14 p.m., January 8, 2008
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that impacts many in the winter. This disorder is associated with the days becoming shorter and the nights longer. Lack of exposure to light is thought to bring about the symptoms of this type of depression.
No one knows the exact number of Americans who suffer from SAD. People with SAD tend to overeat, over-sleep, and gain a lot of weight in the fall and winter. The disorder also interferes with normal activities and interests. Symptoms include:
• Excessive sleeping, difficulty staying awake, overeating, and weight gain during the fall or winter months;
• Feelings of extreme fatigue, inability to maintain regular lifestyle schedule;
• Depression (feelings of sadness, loss of feelings, apathy) combined with irritability;
• Lack of interest in social interactions, losing interest in activities of enjoyment;
• Remission of symptoms in the spring and summer months.
Seasonal Affective Disorder can be identified and easily treated. Although depression can be treated with anti-depressants, the most accepted treatment for SAD is to increase exposure to full-spectrum light every day. For those with mild symptoms, spending an extra half hour outside each day can help. Take a long walk at lunch. Rearrange your office so that you are sitting by a window that will give you direct exposure. Or if additional time in the sun is not an alternative, you may be treated by phototherapy (light therapy).
Light therapy involves exposure to a bright, full-spectrum light. These are sometimes called light boxes and have been shown to be quite effective in combating the symptoms of SAD. Other possible treatments include room ionizers (which increase the amount of negative ions in the air), therapy, or medication.
If you feel that you are suffering from this seasonal disorder, do not hesitate to get help. While it is relatively common, it is important that a professional make the diagnosis and assist you in finding relief. With just a bit of help, you can chase away the blues that come with the dreary and dark days of winter and make your life full of sunshine!
This column is provided by the Mental Health Center of East Central Kansas. For more information, brochures, or to request a speaker for your organization, contact Bev Cress at (620) 343-2211.