Seasonal Depression

By Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, ND, DACBN

Seasonal depression, or seasonal affective disorder (SAD), is a unique kind of depression that occurs each year during the same season. Most often, it starts in the fall or winter and ends in spring or early summer. This disorder was first identified fifteen years ago by Norman Rosenthal, M.D. at the National Institute of Mental Health. Also known as the "the winter blues," or "cabin fever," seasonal depression is often disregarded as a figment of the imagination. However, it's a very real and debilitating condition, but one that can be managed with appropriate treatment.

What Are the Symptoms of Seasonal Depression?

The symptoms of seasonal depression are similar to those of other types of depression, except that they only occur during certain periods of the year. Physical symptoms include fatigue, restlessness, food cravings, increased appetite and weight gain, difficulties sleeping, and lack of energy. Emotional and cognitive symptoms include extreme sadness, anxiety, irritability, loss of interest in usual activities, withdrawal from social activities, and inability to concentrate. The severity and frequency of symptoms can vary from person to person, and may even change from day to day.

Why Does Seasonal Depression Occur?

Health care specialists are still unsure of the exact cause of seasonal depression. But many believe that it is influenced by the availability of sunlight. One theory suggests that as available sunlight decreases in the fall and winter, the internal regulation of sleep, and hormones are delayed, running more slowly than usual. Another theory is that a chemical imbalance in the brain causes the symptoms of seasonal depression. In both instances, it is believed that exposure to light can correct these imbalances.

Who Gets Seasonal Depression?

Roughly 5% of the population in the United States is affected by seasonal depression. About 70-80% of those affected are women. Seasonal depression can occur at any age, even in childhood; however, it usually develops between one's twenties and forties. The incidence of seasonal depression increases as latitude increases, although this does not hold true for the poles.

Are You Affected by Seasonal Depression?

If you think you or someone you love is affected by seasonal depression, seek the advice of a health care professional. Don't try to diagnose it yourself. Your doctor can evaluate your condition and help you determine if it's truly seasonal depression or if it's a sign of a larger physical or mental condition.

How Is Seasonal Depression Treated?

The most common and effective method of treatment for seasonal depression is light therapy, or phototherapy. During a light therapy treatment, the patient sits approximately two to three feet away from a light device that consists of white fluorescent light tubes covered with a plastic screen. The intensity of the light should be at least 10,000 Lux in order to be effective. Light therapy is very safe and is usually well tolerated by most patients. Treatments are usually performed in the morning for thirty minute sessions. Many patients notice dramatic improvement within a few days, but symptoms tend to rebound quickly with the discontinuation of treatment. Side effects may include eye strain, headache, fatigue, and insomnia. It's best to use a commercial light box made specifically for this type of treatment. Unfiltered ultraviolet light can damage the skin and eyes. Light boxes designed specifically for this purpose are available without a prescription for $300-$600.

In severe cases of seasonal depression, antidepressants may also be prescribed. SSRI (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) such as Paxil and Zoloft have had some success in relieving the symptoms of seasonal depression. For some people, it's easier to take a pill than to invest the time, energy, and money required for light therapy.

Other Ways to Care for Yourself

If you are prone to developing seasonal depression, there are several steps you can take to prevent the onset of the condition and to care for yourself while you're most vulnerable. A healthy diet, exercise, and daily exposure to light can help to alleviate and manage seasonal depression.

Diet: A well-balanced diet should contain each of the forty nutrients that your body needs on a daily basis. These vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients help to boost energy levels and regulate mood.
Exercise: Regular and consistent exercise can help to improve circulation, and move waste and nutrients through the system more quickly. It also boosts energy levels, improves sleep, and strengthens the immune system, and improves overall health.
Light Exposure: Even before you notice the symptoms of seasonal depression you should begin to manage your exposure to light, whether it's from natural or artificial sources. Spend time outdoors; even if it's cloudy, you will still reap the benefits of exposure to daylight. And you can also begin using a light box before your symptoms develop, in order to reduce their severity or possibly prevent their onset altogether.