Depression–The SAD Facts
For most of us, winter means–at best–skiing and ice skating, and–at worst–short days and snow shoveling. But for the estimated one in five Americans afflicted with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), the season means nothing but misery.
The condition tends to start between the ages of 18 and 30 and seems to affect twice as many women as men. Because men are traditionally more reluctant to seek medical help, however, statistics are not reliable.
This illness strikes during winter, when the days turn shorter and exposure to sunlight is limited. While we can all feel a bit down and low in energy at this time of the year, those most affected by this type of depression experience these feelings to an extreme. Some suffer a milder form of the condition–more like the “winter blues.”
Nobody knows the real causes of this malady, but researchers think there’s a link between the level of natural daylight and the ability of the brain to function normally.
When light passes through the eye, it stimulates nerve impulses to travel to the hypothalamus, the part of the brain that rules your moods, appetite and sex drive. Seasonal Affective Disorder sufferers are thought to be more reliant on this light. Any lack results in nerves being insufficiently stimulated. This disrupts the brain’s ability to give the body the right messages.
Fortunately, this condition is treatable. Exposure to bright light is the most effective treatment. This ensures the brain receives the extra light needed to function properly.
Sufferers use special light boxes or lamps that emit light of 10 times the intensity of household bulbs. Users have to sit close to the box for at least one hour every day during winter months. Ordinary light bulbs and sunbeds won’t work as treatment.
As well as light treatment, there are many other ways to help fight winter depression:
- Get out as much as possible, especially at midday, when the sun is brightest.
- Decorate you home in light colors. If possible, sit near windows at home and the office.
- Try not to take on major projects such as relocating or changing employment in winter months.
- Take your vacations during the winter. Two weeks in a sunny climate can break up the worst stretch of the season.
- Go to bed and get up at similar times each day. A faulty body clock may be one of the reasons people contract SAD.