Symptoms
Fall and Winter
- Irritability
- Tiredness or low energy
- Problem getting along with other people
- Hypersensitivity to rejection
- Heavy leaden feeling in the arms or legs
- Oversleeping
- Weight gain
- Appetite
Spring and Summer
- Depression
- Trouble Sleeping
- Weight Loss
- Poor appetite
- Agitation or Anxiety
How is SAD diagnosed?
Your health care provider will ask if:
You have been depressed during the same season and have you gotten better when the seasons changed for at least two years in a row.
You have symptoms that often occur with SAD, such as being very hungry (especially) craving carbohydrates, gaining weight, and sleeping more than usual.
A close relative-a parent, brother or sister has had SAD.
Treatment
SAD is treated using light therapy, medicines and/or counseling.
Light Therapy
a) Bright light treatment
b) Dawn simulation
Antidepressants
a) Paxil
b) Zoloft
c) Wellbutrin
d) Effexor
Counseling
a) Cognitive behavioral therapy
b) Interpersonal therapy
Information courtesy of www.webmd.com
