What Are The Symptoms Of Seasonal Affective Disorder?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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  • a persistent low mood.
  • a loss of pleasure or interest in normal everyday activities.
  • feeling irritable.
  • feelings of despair, guilt and worthlessness.
  • low self-esteem.
  • tearfulness.
  • feeling stressed or anxious.
  • a reduced sex drive.

How does SAD affect you?

Otherwise known as seasonal depression, SAD can affect

your mood, sleep, appetite, and energy levels

, taking a toll on all aspects of your life from your relationships and social life to work, school, and your sense of self-worth.

What are the symptoms of SADS?

  • a persistent low mood.
  • a loss of pleasure or interest in normal everyday activities.
  • feeling irritable.
  • feelings of despair, guilt and worthlessness.
  • low self-esteem.
  • tearfulness.
  • feeling stressed or anxious.
  • a reduced sex drive.

How long does SAD last?

SAD is not considered a separate disorder but is a type of depression characterized by its recurrent seasonal pattern, with symptoms lasting

about 4 to 5 months per year

.

What deficiency causes seasonal affective disorder?


Low levels of vitamin D

, caused by low dietary intake of the vitamin or not enough exposure to sunshine, have been found in people with SAD.

How do you test for SADS?

  1. Medical history. …
  2. Medical examination. …
  3. ECG (electrocardiogram) * …
  4. Echocardiogram (Echo) * …
  5. Exercise test * …
  6. Cardiopulmonary exercise test. …
  7. Holter Monitor* …
  8. Cardiomemo and event recorder *

Is sudden death painful?

Their study made the surprising discovery that about half of patients who have a sudden cardiac arrest first experience symptoms like intermittent chest pain and pressure, shortness of breath, palpitations, or ongoing flu-like symptoms such as nausea and abdominal and back pain.

Does SAD get worse with age?

The

age range is young because studies have shown that SAD decreases as you age

. The most common ages are between 18 and 30. Luckily for those suffering from the winter blues, there are several things you can do besides therapy and medication to keep you motivated this winter.

How do you get rid of sadness?

  1. Notice how you feel and why. Knowing your emotions helps you understand and accept yourself. …
  2. Bounce back from disappointments or failures. When things don’t go your way, don’t give up! …
  3. Think positive. …
  4. Think of solutions. …
  5. Get support. …
  6. Put yourself in a good mood.

Is SAD serious?

The 5% of U.S. adults with SAD think not. A lot of people who are bummed out about shorter, colder days approaching joke that they’re experiencing “seasonal depression,” but in reality,

seasonal affective disorder is a potentially serious mental health condition

, much more than bits of fleeting sadness.

Does SAD go away?

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that’s related to changes in seasons —

SAD begins and ends at about the same times every year

.

Does SAD make you tired?

Symptoms of SAD

a loss

of

pleasure or interest in normal everyday activities. irritability. feelings of despair, guilt and worthlessness. feeling lethargic (lacking in energy) and sleepy during the day.

What is the most likely cause of SAD?

SAD has been linked to

a biochemical imbalance in the brain prompted by shorter daylight hours and less sunlight in winter

. As seasons change, people experience a shift in their biological internal clock or circadian rhythm that can cause them to be out of step with their daily schedule.

What vitamins can help with SAD?


Vitamin D

is known as the “sunshine vitamin” because your body can make it by using cholesterol and absorbing natural sunshine. Your mood may improve with as little as 10 minutes of sun exposure. This is why light therapy is an important treatment for SAD. Your body can also absorb vitamin D through food.

Does vitamin D deficiency cause seasonal affective disorder?

A new study by the University of Georgia

linked low vitamin D levels with greater risk of SAD

, or seasonal affective disorder (a type of depression affecting up to 10% of the US population though the fall and winter months).

What vitamin helps seasonal depression?


Vitamin D

is one vitamin in particular that a doctor may recommend for someone experiencing seasonal depression. Vitamin D is produced by the body after sunlight exposure. During fall and winter months when sunlight exposure may be minimal, supplementing vitamin D can improve mood and reduce the symptoms of SAD.

Leah Jackson
Author
Leah Jackson
Leah is a relationship coach with over 10 years of experience working with couples and individuals to improve their relationships. She holds a degree in psychology and has trained with leading relationship experts such as John Gottman and Esther Perel. Leah is passionate about helping people build strong, healthy relationships and providing practical advice to overcome common relationship challenges.