The beginning of each year is always complicated. On the one hand, after all the Christmas celebrations it is time to return to the daily routine. While the winter weather generates a feeling of sadness in some people. In the same way, other aspects must be added, such as the current health emergency that seems to have no end. Although it seems simple, all these elements can lead to Seasonal Affective Disorder.
In one of its simplest definitions, it is a type of depression. It occurs during certain seasons of the year, most often autumn or winter. According to the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS), it affects between four to eight percent of the general population.
According to Massachusetts General HospitalShorter days and less sunlight are thought to trigger a chemical change in the brain that leads to symptoms of depression. While light therapy and antidepressants can help in its treatment.
Who is at risk?
In Mexico 4.4 million people experience winter depression each year. Seasonal Affective Disorder often begins during adulthood. Since the risk increases with age, it is therefore rare in young people and adolescents. Women are affected more often than men.
What causes Seasonal Affective Disorder?
Less sunlight and shorter days are thought to be related to a chemical change in the brain and may be part of the causes of seasonal depression. Also melatonin, a hormone related to sleep. The body naturally produces more melatonin when it is dark.
What are your symptoms?
Increased sleep and sleepiness during the day.
Loss of interest and pleasure in activities that were previously enjoyed.
Social withdrawal and increased sensitivity to rejection.
Bad mood and anxiety.
Feelings of guilt and hopelessness.
Extreme tiredness (fatigue).
Decreased sexual desire.
Decreased ability to concentrate.
Trouble thinking clearly.
Increased appetite, especially for sweets and carbohydrates.
Weight gain.
Physical problems, such as headaches.
Symptoms tend to come back and then get better at about the same times each year.
Classification
- Autumn start. This type is also called winter blues. Symptoms of depression begin in late fall through the early winter months. They ease during the summer months.
- Early spring. This type is also called summer depression. Symptoms of this type of depression begin in late spring through early summer. This type is much less common.
How is it diagnosed?
Seasonal depression often occurs with other medical conditions, such as heart disease or cancer. It can also occur with other mood disorders, such as substance abuse or anxiety. For these reasons, early diagnosis and treatment are essential for recovery.
Specialists at Massachusetts General Hospital maintain that a diagnosis of SAD can be made after a thorough mental health exam and medical history. These are done by a psychiatrist or some other mental health provider.
How is it treated?
Treatment for winter and summer seasonal affective disorder often differs. They can include any of these elements:
- Sun exposure. Spending time outside or near a window can help relieve symptoms.
- Light therapy. If increased sunlight is not possible, exposure to a special light for a certain amount of time each day may help. Certain light sources are best.
- Cognitive-behavioral or interpersonal therapy helps to change the distorted opinions that one may have of oneself and the environment. It can help improve interpersonal relationship skills, as well as identify the causes of stress to learn how to manage them. These prescription medications can help correct the chemical imbalance that it can cause.