Sleeping too much, oversleeping in the morning
Increased craving for Carbohydrates leading to weight gain
Lethargy
Feeling depressed
Nausea
Low sex drive
Seasonal Affective Disorder was first described and named by Norman E Rosenthal in 1984. Up until then, it was not recognised as a medical disorder by doctors.
Thought to be caused by lack of daylight hours, this condition is more common between the ages of eighteen and thirty. The symptoms are worse the further you live from the equator, as there are fewer daylight hours and the weather is colder.
Many animals diminish activity during winter months because of a reduction in food supplies. Some experts argue that S.A.D. is a left-over from our prehistory ancestors who hibernated during the cold weather. In women, this would have regulated reproduction.
Light stimulates the Hypothalamus in the brain. This controls mood, appetite and sleep patterns. Lack of this hormone may slow down the body clock.
Treatments for S.A.D comprise of the following:
- Negative air ionization releases charged particles into the environment
- Vitamin D levels may be low, so taking a supplement has proved helpful in some cases
- Sitting in front of a light box emitting full spectrum white, blue or green light
- Taking a prescribed anti-depressant drug
Self-help ideas to ease the symptoms of S.A.D. are:
- Spend a lot of time outdoors and take moderate exercise
- Work near a window
- Eat a well-balanced diet
- Decorate your home in light colours to reflect light into the room
- Learn relaxation techniques to help manage your stress. Plan to holiday in a sunny place during the winter
- Plan for the winter and complete major projects in the spring and summer
Always confide and explain the situation to family and friends. They can’t be supportive if they don’t understand what you’re going through. Talking therapies like CBT can help you to understand your thoughts and emotions while feeling depressed.
S.A.D. is more easily managed than you think. If you suspect you may be a sufferer, talk to your doctor. This is the first step in reducing the effects and helping you to spend happier winter days and nights.
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