Seasonal Affective Disorder Diagnosis
Although many people joke about hibernation in winter, some people have depressive symptoms which actually are severe enough to interfere with day-to-day life. Diagnosis of Seasonal Affective Disorder lies on the spectrum of depression. Although depression is cyclical, people with SAD and symptoms flare up in fall or winter and remission comes in spring and summer (although not always). As with depression, SAD is diagnosed more often in men than women.SAD Causes
Doctors do not fully understand why Seasonal Affective Disorder occurs, but they continue to learn more about seasonal affective disorder everyday. Like many mental illnesses, science has been unable to point to a specific cause for Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Research has been able to determine some biological clues to help us better understand why people may get SAD and how to help those suffering find relief. SAD has to do with brain changes. People with the condition usually have lower levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood, energy, sleep, and digestion. Many people with SAD over-produce melatonin, a chemical that encourages sleep. Short, winter days may compound deficiency and doctors believe there may be genetics behind SAD.Substance Use Disorder and Seasonal Affective Disorder
Many people who struggle with Seasonal Affective Disorder also struggle with substance issues, including unhealthy drinking patterns. Science is not complete on this, but there are triggers for co-occurring disorders as people may self-medicate with alcohol when stressed. SAD often peaks at times of year which bring stress (such as holidays). Seasonal Affective Disorder often impacts people during the holiday season when people have higher expectations, financial stress, and increased risk of depression.Treatment
Treating seasonal affective disorder begins with low-level interventions often that are effective in improving mood. One of the most well-known treatments for SAD is light therapy. This light therapy is beneficial. The brain cannot tell the difference in type of light as it is geared towards providing neurological stimulation provided by natural light. Vitamin D supplements may also help alleviate SAD symptoms. The dosage varies but other treatments can help including exercise, mindfulness, and psychotherapy. Doctors may prescribe medication depending on a person’s needs.Steps in the Right Direction offers structured, gender-specific sober living in the San Fernando Valley, with pet-friendly homes for women in Northridge and men in Winnetka. For more information, call (818) 231-1400.
Looking for a safe, structured place to live while you rebuild? Steps in the Right Direction offers gender-specific sober living in the San Fernando Valley: Aura House for women in Northridge and Arminta House for men in Winnetka. Both homes are pet friendly. Call (818) 231-1400 or apply online.
About the author: Linda Butler
Founder, Steps in the Right Direction
Linda Butler founded Steps in the Right Direction in the spring of 2000 and has spent more than 25 years helping women and men find lasting recovery through structured, pet-friendly sober living in the San Fernando Valley. Learn more about Linda.