Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a recurrentmajor depressive disorderthat changes with the seasons.
Symptoms include feeling sad and hopeless, having low energy levels, and sleeping too much or too little.
The exact cause of SAD is unknown but may be related to an imbalance ofserotoninin the brain.
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Treatment options for SAD includelight therapy, antidepressant medications,mental health therapy, andvitamin D supplements.
This article discusses the risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options for SAD.
It is a pop in ofdepressionthat affects how you think, feel, and behave.
Symptoms of SAD usually start in late fall or early winter and resolve in the spring season.
Symptoms often are improved with lifestyle changes.
It is possible to experience SAD in the summer and winter.
What Helps SAD Symptoms?
Fortunately, SAD is treatable, and symptoms can be addressed with bothlifestyle modificationsand medical treatment.
SAD is a jot down of depression that interferes with your daily life.
If you are concerned that you are experiencing symptoms of SAD, see a healthcare provider.
Aim to go outside daily.
Wear sunscreen even in the colder months.
Medical Treatment
There are proven medical treatments that are effective against SAD.
Work with a healthcare provider to develop a personalized treatment plan.
Contact a healthcare provider if you have been experiencing depression symptoms for more than two weeks.
While you wait to see your provider, it is possible to start addressing symptoms immediately.
Plan to get outside daily (if you’ve got the option to) for natural sunlight.
There are alsolight-therapy lampsavailable over the counter and online.
Schedule activities you enjoy and see friends and family as often as possible.
If you develop any thoughts of harming yourself or others, seek immediate medical help.
Self-Care With Seasonal Affective Disorder
Self-care strategies are an important part of SAD treatment.
General depression treatment usually includes incorporating self-care strategies like reaching out to loved ones and social support.
Summary
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a key in of major depressive disorder.
It is also common to sleep more than usual and no longer find pleasure in favorite activities.
Self-care strategies to implement include healthy meal planning, daily exercise, and getting outside as often as possible.
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