Do you have winter depression? Doctor explains causes and symptoms
Understanding SAD symptoms and seeking appropriate treatments like light therapy, exercise, and dietary adjustments can significantly help manage this condition.
Understanding SAD symptoms and seeking appropriate treatments like light therapy, exercise, and dietary adjustments can significantly help manage this condition.
Understanding SAD symptoms and seeking appropriate treatments like light therapy, exercise, and dietary adjustments can significantly help manage this condition.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that follows a seasonal pattern, usually during the winter when sunlight is scarce. It appears when it is cold outside, and the surroundings are dark. Sunlight plays a crucial role in regulating the hormones serotonin and melatonin in the body. SAD generally occurs when changes in these hormones adversely affect our mental state.
What psychologist suggests
Psychologists say that this is a real medical issue that needs to be addressed properly. Recognising the symptoms will help you seek treatment at the right time. These are some of the prominent symptoms of SAD.
Lack of energy – You feel exhausted and demotivated constantly
Hypersomnia – A sleep disorder where someone feels excessively sleepy during the day
Cravings – Craving to eat carbohydrate-rich food and sweet dishes
Depression – Feeling sad and hopeless at all times
How to overcome it?
Light – Try to fill your house with natural light during the day. Enjoying light strolls outside will be helpful.
Exercise – Exercising every day will improve your mental health
Diet – Try to include foods that are rich in omega-3 and vitamin D in your regular diet
Therapy – Seek a psychiatrist’s help for treatments like light therapy if the symptoms persist.
(The writer is a psychiatrist at SH Hospital, Kottayam)