Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

The changing of the seasons for many people can be a time of struggle against a form of depression called Seasonal Affective Disorder, commonly known as SAD, It is a specific type of depression that only appears during a certain time of year, most often during the fall or winter, according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV). I have known a few people, including myself, that struggle with SAD.

People may reject the accusation that a shift in the weather can cause depression in some individuals. Seasonal depression can be cause by the lack of sunlight during the winter for those very sensitive individuals. It may be argued that everybody goes through these varying weather patterns without any difficulty. There is a medical reason why these persons encounter depression because of the weather and also there are treatments available. One known effective treatment for SAD is light; patients sit under special lights with full spectrum light bulbs. Other tips to help treat your seasonal depression:

·        Stay connected with friends, support is important.

·        Change the light bulbs in your home to those that are more like natural light.

·        Exercise, such as walking the mall or on a treadmill

·        Maintaining a positive attitude can do wanders for your heart

·        Managing time wisely to reduce any added stress

·        Eat healthy well balanced meals

It is important that your surrounding environment be kept as bright as possible for the longest time possible as well.