S.A.D- Seasonal Affective Disorder
S.A.D is a type of depression that usually occurs around the same time every year. It may not be as apparent as other types of depression but can easily affect a person who experiences it.
There usually is a difference that is visible to you if you experience seasonal affective disorder, this forms in a low mood and lack of energy, as well as a lack of interest in your life and what is going on.
S.A.D often appears at winter, as the nights draw quicker than any other season, the gloomy weather and the darkness can change one’s outlook on their life.
S.A.D does usually go after winter months or any other months you may experience it, but as mentioned it can return. The best action to take is speaking to somebody who may have experienced a seasonal affective disorder or contacting your doctor. Talking with somebody that has experienced S.A.D could help somewhat in understanding the condition, the symptoms and what you can expect to happen whilst you are experiencing it.
Like anything else, the affect S.A.D may have on you, might be different to everyone else, so getting advice is a great start, but comparing your depression to everybody’s else’s will not help.
Once you have visited your doctor for a possible diagnosis of S.A.D, you may be assessed to check your mental health. Your current mood, sleeping patterns and lifestyle may be evaluated, it is important that you are open and honest with your G.P as they will be able to help you better this way.
Treating S.A.D isn’t as easy as it sounds, there is no lifelong cure for depression afterall, and just like depression, S.A.D needs time to be understood and adapted too. S.A.D can make you feel physically drained, unmotivated, unhappy and stressed. Stress can build up through not feeling understood and this makes S.A.D worse usually.
S.A.D usually is helped through certain treatments, sometimes anti-depressants are prescribed by your G.P to help support you on your journey with S.A.D, other times you may be offered Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.
Your G.P may have other options that might suit you better, remember just because a certain treatment worked for someone you may know, it does not necessarily mean it will work for you.
Other Symptoms of S.A.D may include:
-Feeling tearful and constantly being upset;
-Lack of Confidence;
-Irritable and feeling annoyed with everyone and everything.
-More tired than previous or sleep a great deal more.
As winter usually is not full of sunshine, it isn’t unusual for the winter blues to start kicking in on people. Do not feel alone, many go through S.A.D each year and often, there is help available. A few ideas to ease living with Seasonal affective disorder are: go on short walks with a pet or family member, keep yourself socially active (this can be hard if you feel alone and lack self-esteem, but don’t be afraid to speak to somebody you can trust.)