Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) Counseling
What is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)?
Seasonal Affective Disorder typically begins in fall and lasts throughout the winter with remission starting in spring and lasts throughout the summer. This disorder occurs more often in parts of the world with reduced sun exposure during the fall and winter months. The symptoms are limited to the seasons, but the individual can experience significant impairment in several areas of functioning. SAD affects women more than men at a 4:1 ratio. Some of the biological mechanisms underlying SAD include the circadian rhythms, retinal sensitivity to light, neurotransmitter dysfunction, vitamin D deficiency, and serotonin levels (Kurlansik, S. L., & Ibay, A. D., 2012). The causes of SAD are unknown, and are currently being researched.
What makes SAD different from Depression?
SAD symptoms are similar to depression with a few differences. Unlike Major depression, symptoms of SAD typically begin to reduce with increased sun exposure with the spring months. Individuals can have symptoms of Major Depression and SAD at the same time, and relief of some symptoms with a change in seasons. Some may experience SAD in the summer, though it is quite uncommon.
• Feeling sad most of the day, nearly everyday
• Loss of interest in activities
• Feeling hopeless or worthless
• Changes in appetite/weight
• Low energy
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• Problems with sleep
• Feeling sluggish or agitated
• Trouble with concentration or making decisions
• Loss of interest in sex
• Thoughts of death or suicide
The symptoms of winter SAD include:
• Low Energy
• Hypersomnia
• Overeating
• Weight Gain
• Craving for Carbohydrates
• Social Withdrawal
The symptoms of summer SAD include:
• Poor appetite associated with weight loss
• Insomnia
• Agitation
• Restlessness
• Anxiety
• Episodes of Violent Behavior
What are the Risk Factors?
• Being Female. Females are 4 times more likely to be diagnosed with SAD
• Living far from the equator. SAD is more frequently diagnosed far north or south of the equator
• Family History of depression or SAD
• Having depression or bipolar disorder
• Younger Age. Younger adults have a higher risk of SAD than older adults.
What are the treatments for SAD?
• Psychotherapy/Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
• Medication
• Light Therapy
• Vitamin D
Prevention of SAD
SAD has a predictable pattern and individuals can begin implementing activities to reduce the symptoms or onset. In the early fall, individuals can begin taking medication, increasing physical activity, increasing light exposure, practice relaxation techniques, implement stress management techniques, discuss vitamin D with their physician, enter psychotherapy treatment, and visit warmer and sunnier climates.
If you would like to learn more about SAD and how psychotherapy and cognitive behavioral therapy can help, please give us a call at 847-461-8414.
Megan Rosecrans Psy.D.
Licensed Clinical Health Psychologist
References
Kurlansik, S. L., & Ibay, A. D. (2012). Seasonal Affective Disorder. American Family Physician. 86(11),1037-1041.