A type of depression that occurs during specific seasons of the year is called seasonal affective disorder (SAD). SAD mainly occurs during the winter or fall. The reason for this may be shorter days and less sunlight that result in chemical modifications in the brain. Depression symptoms related to SAD start and end at about the same time every year. For example, it usually starts in the fall and continues until the winter.
Let’s check about this seasonal depression in detail.
Common symptoms of SAD
Symptoms of SAD may be similar to those of some other mental health conditions. Therefore, it is always good to consult a healthcare provider for a diagnosis of the problem. SAD can be categorised as:
- Fall onset: this type of depression is also called winter depression, and it starts during the fall or the start of winter. Symptoms resolve during the summer.
- Spring onset: this type of depression is less common and is also called summer depression. It starts in the late spring or early summer.
The most common symptoms of SAD are:
- Daytime drowsiness and sleepiness
- Loss of interest in activities that formerly enjoyed
- Irritation and anxiety
- Social withdrawal
- Hopelessness and guilt
- Tiredness and low energy
- Difficulty thinking clearly
- Weight gain
- Decreased sex drive
- Headaches
How is seasonal depression treated?
The causes of winter depression and summer depression can be different; therefore, treatment for these two types of depression usually differs. Treatment options for seasonal affective disorder include any or a combination of the following:
- Sunlight exposure: winter depression symptoms can be relieved by spending time outside in the sunlight or near a window.
- Light therapy: In winter, if there is not much sunlight, exposure to special light for a specific time each day can help relieve the symptoms.
- Psychotherapy: different types of psychotherapies can be used to change the views of the person. These include cognitive-behavioural and interpersonal therapies.
- Antidepressants: Depression occurs mainly due to chemical changes in the brain; therefore, antidepressants can be prescribed to treat this chemical imbalance.
- Apart from regular physical activity, social bonding, doing favourite things, and avoiding abusing substances, eating a healthy and balanced diet can also be effective in improving the symptoms of SAD.
Conclusion
Seasonal affective disorder is a depression that strikes during a specific season. This condition usually shows up during adulthood and its risk increases with age. It is observed that females are affected more often than males. It is important to consult a healthcare provider to get the right help if symptoms related to SAD appear. By providing access to therapies like light therapy and counseling, health insurance helps manage SAD symptoms effectively.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.
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