Symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder
- Seasonal Depression - Those affected by seasonal affective disorder experience seasonal depression that usually begins in late fall or early winter.
- Fatigue - Sufferers often suffer extreme fatigue and irritability.
- Food Cravings - Many individuals crave sweet or starchy foods and often gain weight as a result.
- Social Avoidance - Those with SAD often avoid social situations and may feel more sensitive to criticism and social rejection.
Treatments for Seasonal Affective Disorder
- Light Therapy - Because SAD is thought to be caused by lack of sunlight, light therapy is often an effective treatment approach.
- Light Boxes - Individuals using light therapy may use a specially made light box to increase exposure to light and reduce symptoms and depression.
- Medication - Some patients benefit from the use psychiatric drugs, such as antidepressants, in combination with light therapy.
- Therapy - Researchers have also found that cognitive-behavioral therapy may also be beneficial to those suffering from seasonal affective disorder.
