Management of Seasonal Depression -Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

Seasonal depression, otherwise known as seasonal affective disorder or SAD, typically manifests as major depressive symptoms experienced during a particular time of year. It often occurs in late fall or early winter and lasts into spring (although there is also a lesser-known spring/summer-related SAD). SAD usually occurs when the length of the day shortens and there is less exposure to the sun.

Although the exact cause remains uncertain, it is believed to result from chemical changes in the brain: Decreased daylight lowers serotonin levels (the "happy" neurotransmitter) and increases melatonin levels - the "sleep hormone" - which makes a person more tired. In some cases, it may be inherited; it more commonly occurs in those who have other mood disorders. It also occurs in those living farther from the equator. Women tend to get SAD more often than men-perhaps because melatonin changes estrogen levels.

Symptoms are similar to those mentioned under "major depression". In addition to those manifestations, a person might also demonstrate aggressive behavior. 

Cloudy Days and Depression

The following are some general approaches to the Management of Seasonal Depression-Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD):

General Approaches to Decreasing Depression of Seasonal Affective Disorder

• Get more exposure to sunlight

• Use a light box

• Therapy - Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

• Seasonal affective disorder shares some symptoms with to both sadness and major depression. It may be helpful to explore those links as well.

• Exercise

• Yoga

• Meditation

• Massage

Over-the-counter treatment for SAD

Considered Natural and Herbal Remedies

• Vitamin D (often low in SAD)

• 5-HTP

• SAMe

• St Johns Wort

• Ginko

Prescriptive Treatment of SAD

If other options aren’t working for seasonal depression, antidepressants may help. They’re commonly used to treat SAD during certain times of the year.

• SSRIs (serotonin reuptake inhibitors) (common: Escitalopram/Lexapro, Paroxetine/Paxil, Sertraline/Zoloft, and others)

• SNRIs (serotonin/norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors) (common: Effexor, Pristiq)

• NDRI - Bupropion (NDRI-increases serotonin and norepinephrine) (common: Wellbutrin)