Seasonal Affective Disorder.

What Causes Seasonal Depression?

While scientists have not yet pinpointed an exact cause of this condition, the reduction in the amount of daylight during winter months is widely credited.

Some of the most common factors that are believed to contribute to the onset of Seasonal Affective Disorder include:

• Disruptions in circadian rhythm
• Chemical imbalance in the brain
• Vitamin D deficiency
• Increase in melatonin production

Interestingly enough, all of the items listed can be connected to a reduction in sunlight exposure.

Summer Depression is a less common form of SAD that is characterized by depression brought on during the summer months. The rare condition is an anomaly that causes a clear contradiction to the theories of what causes Seasonal Affective Disorder.

Diagnosis

Before receiving professional treatment, a diagnosis by a trained mental health professional will be necessary. This professional will be looking for known signs and symptoms of the condition, how many the patient exhibits, and how often.

Signs & Symptoms of Seasonal Depression

• Feelings of sadness
• Anxiety
• Sugar and carbohydrate cravings
• Weight gain
• Fatigue/lack of energy
• Difficulty concentrating
• Irritability
• Heavy limbs
• Loss of interest
• Insomnia
• Feelings of hopelessness
• Thoughts of self-harm

Treatment for Seasonal Depression

The good news is that Seasonal Depression is treatable! In fact, there are several different ways to help you cope with and to treat this condition. Treatment options can include talk therapy, medication, and alternative therapy. As with most conditions, a combination of therapies often provides the best results.

Let’s talk about each treatment option.

Related Conditions

Do you have Seasonal Affective Disorder, or is it something else? The following conditions are often confused with or co-occurring with Seasonal Affective Disorder:

• Depression
• Bipolar Disorder
• Generalized Anxiety
• Postpartum Depression

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