Seasonal Affective disorder
Prepared by p.chandini
behavior therapist
Seasonal affective disorder is a mood disorder which is characterized by depression that occurs at the same time of every year.
Usually people call Seasonal Affective Disorder as winter blues. but, it is not just the winter blues. The symptoms can be distressing and overwhelming and they can interfere with daily functioning.
Causes
Your biological clock (circadian rhythm).
Serotonin levels.
Melatonin levels.
Symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder:
fatigue
difficulty in concentrating
feeling of hopelessness
irritability
lack of interest in social activities
lethargy
feeling unhappy
weight gain / weight loss
difficulty in sleeping
restlessness
lack of appetite
In severe conditions, people with Seasonal Affective Disorder can experience suicidal thoughts.
Risk factors
Family history.
Having major depression or bipolar disorder.
Living far from the equator.
Low level of vitamin D.
Treatment
Light Therapy -
light therapy aims to expose people with Seasonal Affected Disorder to a bright light every day to make up for the natural sunshine in the darker months.
Psychotherapy -
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of talk therapy which aimed at helping people learn how to cope with difficult situations.
CBT also uses a process called behavioral activation, which helps individuals identify and schedule pleasant, engaging indoor or outdoor activities to combat the loss of interest they typically experience in the winter.
Medications-
antidepressant medications called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors used to treat Seasonal Affective Disorder.
Vitamin D-
Nutritional supplements of vitamin D may help improve their symptoms.