November 19, 2008

If the shorter days and colder temperatures have you singing the winter blues, you could be dealing with something called Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD. The disorder affects people of all ages and races, and the severity of symptoms can vary from person to person.

“People are cooped up, it's cold, people are isolating themselves more and they're more inclined to stay in,” psychotherapist, Dr. Lewis Weber said.

With the holidays approaching, some say it’s the most wonderful time of the year, but for some suffering with SAD, it's the most dreaded.

“This is the time of year that people go through hardships, and they see increased depressions,” Dr. Weber said.

Dr. Weber says shorter days, less sunlight and colder temperatures are partially to blame for those winter blues.

“Sleeping poorly, having less energy, finding yourself not feeling joy or happiness, finding yourself more isolated,” Dr. Weber said.

Doctors say SAD is a legitimate problem that should not be ignored.

“There's help available, there's hope. There are things like light boxes, psychotherapy, medications and just being aware of taking better care of yourself this time of year,” said Weber.

SAD may require medication for some, but for others, a simple change in food may better their mood.

“It appears that when people consume at least three meals of fish a week, of the cold water fish, there seems to be a decrease in levels of depression,” said clinical nutritionist with the UVa Health System, Susan Del Gobbo.

Del Gobbo says there are some studies that show a connection with depression and low levels of folic acid.

“You’re best source are dark green leafy veggies, an excellent source of folic acid,” said Del Gobbo.

With old man winter knocking, Dr. Weber says you encourages that you acknowledge the symptoms of SAD now because they can worsen over time.

“That's why you treat it. If you think about a cut, if you have a little cut and you treat it right away it's not a problem, but if it gets affected, it gets worse and worse,” said Dr. Weber.

Treatments can range from things as simple as taking a walk and opening the blinds during the day something more complex like light therapy and group psychotherapy.

Doctors say the easiest thing you can do is be in touch with others, and yourself and your feelings.

Weber says it's important that you do not diagnose yourself, if you have symptoms of sad, you should see your doctor for an assessment.