It’s 'that time of year' for SAD suffers

It’s 'that time of year' for SAD suffers

By Liz Lockhart

Although Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) can occur at any time of the year for some, it is most commonly felt that September is the month during which SAD usually rears its head. Mental Healthy has written a very thorough overview of SAD, you can read this here.

SAD is a type of depression that has a seasonal pattern and is characterised by periods of depression that recur at the same time each year.

SAD has other names such as ‘the winter blues’ and ‘winter depression’.  This is because the symptoms are more apparent during the winter months.

SAD is one of those conditions which took some time to be accepted as ‘real’.  Many health care professionals were suspicious of its existence but finally it has been recognised for what it is – a form of depression which occurs seasonally.

SAD has two main symptoms which are low mood and a loss of interest in everyday things.  Other symptoms may include being less active, sleeping more or sleeping erratically and putting on weight.

Now it is September and the days are beginning to get shorter, this is the most common time for the symptoms of SAD to start, typically lifting in Spring. In the meantime there are ways to alleviate feelings of tiredness, stress and sadness.

Treatment with light therapy has proved to be very successful for many SAD suffers.  This is a treatment that used bright light.  Talking therapies such as CBT are also highly successful.  Medication with antidepressants is another way to treat symptoms.  As with other disorders the best place to start when seeking treatment is to talk to your doctor.

In the UK it is thought that SAD affects about 7% of the population.  It is most common in younger people, particularly those in their twenties. 

Seasonal Affective Disorder association (SADA) is a UK charity which is dedicated to helping people affected by SAD. You can visit their website by clicking here.