Thread by @ScienceUpFirst

Seasonal depression is a type of depression caused by seasonal changes and varying in severity.

While 15% of people will experience mild symptoms (albeit uncomfortable), up to 3% will have full-blown symptoms resulting in serious life impairments.

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Some people will experience the “winter blues”: lower mood sets, weight gain, low energy, and persistent fatigue.

In rarer cases, this happens in spring or summer instead, along with insomnia, weight loss, agitation, anxiety, and irritability.

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Seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, is diagnosed when these seasonal mood changes have a negative impact on daily functioning.

People with SAD might oversleep, withdraw, or stop enjoying the things they normally enjoy.

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Scientists are not exactly sure what causes SAD. The variation in light we receive throughout the year could affect our biological clock. Hence, people living farther away from the equator, either north or south, are more at risk.

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Women and adults under the age of 50 are also more likely to develop SAD. Family history of SAD or other forms of depression are important risk factors as well.

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You should see a professional if you think you might be suffering from SAD. A healthcare professional can help you rule out other explanations for symptoms and discuss treatment options with you.

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Light therapy is often the first treatment recommendation as it has been shown to relieve SAD symptoms in about 80% of cases.

Just like any depression, medication and counselling, especially cognitive behavioural therapy, can also help with SAD.

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There are many small things you can do at home to help with your SAD.

Other than physical activity and a balanced diet, many strategies involve increasing daily light exposure. 👇

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Leave the curtains open and make sure that the light is not obstructed by furniture/tree branches.

Rearrange your furniture to sit or train close to windows.

Spend more time outside during daylight, especially if you commute during the darker hours.

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People with SAD have been found to have low vitamin D in their systems. However, there is no compelling evidence that vitamin D supplements can alleviate SAD symptoms.

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Few small studies have looked at melatonin, St. John’s wort, vitamin B12 and Ginkgo biloba as a way to cure or prevent SAD and found no or inconsistent evidence.

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Most importantly, supplements can interact with your medication which can be dangerous. Make sure to talk with a healthcare professional before introducing any into your daily routine.

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Since seasonal depression only lasts a few months at a time, it’s easy to think there’s no reason to seek support. But that’s not true!.

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If you find it difficult doing the things that you usually love, your appetite and sleep patterns have changed, you turn to substances for comfort, or you seriously consider self-harm, you should seek help as soon as possible.

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What about you? Do you or a loved one experience seasonal depression? If so, check out the resources below and consider talking to your doctor.

tinyurl.com/SUFSeasonalDep…

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