December is Seasonal Depression Awareness Month, a time to learn about a type of depression called Seasonal Affective Disorder and different ways to ease the of those impacted by this mental health condition. Seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, is more than an experience of “winter blues.”
Most commonly associated with fall and winter, SAD affects approximately 5% of the US population in any given year according to the nonprofit organization Mental Health America—that’s over 16.4 million Americans. SAD is more common in adults, especially those with major depressive disorder or bipolar disorder; it also sometimes runs in families.
SAD is not considered a separate disorder but is a type of depression characterized by its recurrent seasonal pattern, with symptoms lasting about 4 to 5 months per year. The symptoms of SAD include many of those associated with major depression and some more specific symptoms. Not every person with SAD will experience every symptom, but here is a list of some of them:
Feeling depressed most of every day
Losing interest in activities you once enjoyed
Experiencing changes in appetite and/or weight
Having disrupted sleep patterns
Having low energy or feeling sluggish
Feeling irritated or agitated
Feeling hopeless or worthless
Having difficulty concentrating
Having frequent thoughts of death or suicidal tendencies
Oversleeping
Overeating, which often results in weight gain
Social withdrawal from friends and/or family
If you think you may be suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder, consult with your medical provider or talk to a mental health specialist about your concerns. A physician or mental health provider might recommend that you monitor your carbohydrate/sugar intake, as well as your alcohol consumption, all of which should be limited and only enjoyed in moderation. He or she might also suggest that you get at least 30 minutes of physical activity every day because time spent outdoors offers extra sunlight exposure that can help combat SAD.
If you have any questions, contact us on our website at www.AdvanceATC.com or call us at 877-754-8057.
We look forward to serving you.
With Love & Peace,
Advance Therapeutic Concepts