Identifying and Treating Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

By NYSOFA Advocacy Specialist Colleen Scott

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a form of depression that cycles with the seasons. It can occur at any at time, but SAD typically affects people during the winter. Colder weather, shorter days, and longer periods of darkness may bring symptoms of depression, loss of energy, changes in appetite and sleeping habits, irritability, or loss of interest in social activities.

According to the National Institute of Health, SAD may be present when and of the following symptoms last two or more weeks:

• Persistent sad or empty mood.
   
• Feelings of hopelessness.
   
• Feelings of irritability or worthlessness.
   
• Loss of interest in hobbies or activities.
   
• Decreased energy.
   
• Physical pains without a clear physical cause that don’t go away with treatment.
   
• Sleeping too much or too little.
   
• Appetite changes, including overeating or poor appetite.
   
• Difficulty concentrating.

SAD: How to Treat It

Like other forms of depression, SAD can be treated with antidepressants, according to the Mayo Clinic. But medications can take time to work, and experts recommend starting treatment prior to the onset of symptoms each year.

A non-pharmaceutical option for treatment of SAD is light therapy. Bright light therapy utilizes a piece of equipment called a “light box,” which is a fluorescent lamp that emits a spectrum of light intended to simulate natural sunlight. It’s important to make certain the light box has a filter that blocks harmful UV rays, so the light does not cause any damage. 

Vitamin D

Low levels of vitamin D have been found in people with SAD. Vitamin D deficiency is particularly dangerous for older adults. Vitamin D deficiency is associated with potential bone and heart health issues, increased risk of cognitive decline, hypertension, cancer, diabetes, and decreased immune function. The symptoms can also be very subtle: muscle and bone pain, excessive fatigue, and depressed mood. 

Older adults should pay special attention to vitamin D deficiency. Aging bodies have more difficulty converting and absorbing vitamin D.

Vitamin D Deficiency: How to Treat It

For a Vitamin D boost, you can increase your intake of foods where vitamin D is naturally found such as beef liver, egg yolks, cheeses, and fatty fish, like salmon. You can also increase your intake of vitamin D-fortified foods like milk, yogurt, cereals and juice. But consult with a physician first if you are considering a vitamin D supplement.

Did you know?

• Women are four times as likely to be diagnosed with SAD.
• Vitamin D levels tend to drop during the winter months.
• Certain medications – such as the anti-inflammatory prednisone – can inhibit the ability to produce and metabolize vitamin D.
• Seasonal affective disorder can occur in spring and summer as well, though this occurrence is rare.
• Those who suffer from depression or bipolar disorder may see symptoms worsen with seasons changing.
• 46% of individuals living in rural areas report greater mental health challenges related to the time change.