It’s quite normal to feel a little bummed out when the weather is miserable, but there’s a big difference between the rainy-day blues and
While SAD can sometimes strike in spring and summer, it’s much more common for people to experience symptoms in the
Other symptoms may include irritability, difficulty getting out of bed, a loss of interest in everyday activities, and craving foods that are high in calories and carbohydrates – often leading to weight gain. However, because these symptoms are commonly experienced by sufferers of other mental health conditions,
Individuals who suspect they may have SAD can download the
Rather, people who score unusually highly on the SPAQ are encouraged to contact a healthcare professional in order to discuss the possibility of a SAD diagnosis. Doctors will usually conduct their own analyses in order to confirm the condition and rule out other overlapping mental health disorders. This process may sometimes involve testing the blood for thyroid hormone levels as well as a complete blood count.
Typically, a person needs to display clearly marked seasonal fluctuations in symptoms that follow the same pattern over multiple years before they are diagnosed with SAD. Those who are confirmed to be suffering from the condition will then be offered a range of treatments.
This often begins with assistance in making positive lifestyle changes, such as getting regular exercise, eating healthily, and spending time outdoors. Light therapy is another common form of treatment for SAD, and involves spending time basking in the light emitted by a type of lamp known as a light box, which is designed to mimic sunlight.
Talking therapies can also help lighten the load of SAD, and patients may even be offered antidepressant medications in some cases.
At present, the exact
However, SAD can affect anyone, no matter where they live, which is why any individual who experiences notable drops in mood as the seasons change is advised to contact a doctor.
The content of this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.
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