By Chief Sam DiGiovanna
Feeling an onset of sadness? Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of mood disorder associated with seasonal changes. Commonly seen as depression arising during the winter months, it happens due to a disturbance in the circadian system of the body.
Causes
SAD is said to occur due to changes in the body’s internal clock, and changes in brain and body’s chemicals.
Symptoms
Feeling depressed on most days, feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness, reduced energy, concentration, and interest in activities especially during winters are the commonly noted symptoms.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on detailed medical history and thorough psychiatric evaluation. Doctors may also suggest some tests to rule out other medical conditions.
Facts
* Treatable & diagnosed by a medical professional
* Often requires lab test or imaging
* Can last several months or years
* Common for ages 18-35
* Family history may increase likelihood
* Most cases of SAD begin during late fall or early winter and go away during spring or summer
* Sadness
* Reduced energy
* Loss of concentration and interest in activities
* Feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness
* Trouble sleeping/oversleeping
* Nausea, loss of appetite/craving for fatty or carbohydrate rich foods
* Weight loss/weight gain
* Suicidal thoughts
The exact cause for SAD is not known, but some of the factors that are said to influence the condition include: Changes in the body’s internal clock due to seasonal changes. Reduced levels of the brain chemical serotonin. An imbalance in the chemical melatonin that influences sleep and mood patterns. Vitamin D insufficiency.
Your doctor may also suggest some tests to rule out other medical conditions such as;
Blood test <https://www.bing.com/search?q=Blood%20test>
May be recommended to determine the blood cell counts, check for infections, or other medical conditions such as thyroid problems.
Psychological examination <https://www.bing.com/search?q=Psychological%20examination>
Mental health professionals use question-answer type tools for evaluating and assessing the patient’s disorder.
Treatments
Light therapy, medications, and psychotherapy are the treatments available for SAD. It is important to let the doctor know of your other medical conditions, including bipolar disorder, to avoid any side effects from any of the medications or therapies.
Complications
If untreated, complications may include:
* Social withdrawal
* Drug or substance abuse
Prevention
* Follow a healthy, nutritious diet
* Monitor your mood and energy levels
* Take adequate rest
* Learn to manage stress
* Avoid alcohol
* Try and connect with people to avoid loneliness
* Take a trip to cooler or warm locations depending on the type of SAD you have
Questions To Ask Your Doctor
* Do I have to make any changes to my diet or lifestyle?
* How do I manage my symptoms?
* Can I have a family with this condition?
* What are the likely chances that this will be passed on to my children?
Foods to eat:
* Vitamin D rich foods: e.g., fatty fish such as salmon, tuna, sardines, rainbow trout, fish oil, fortified milk, egg yolk
* Foods rich in omega 3 fatty acids: e.g., oily, fatty fish such as mackerel, herring, salmon, sardines, anchovies, flaxseed, hemp, canola, and walnut oils
* Berries: e.g., blueberries, raspberries, strawberries
* Foods rich in folic acid: e.g., leafy greens, oatmeal, sunflower seeds, oranges, fortified cereals, lentils, black-eyed peas, and soybeans
Foods to avoid:
Sugary foods
For informational purposes only. Consult your medical professional or a licensed qualified therapist, psychologist or psychiatrist for advice.
Source: Focus Medica https://lnkd.in/gJSicXUV <https://lnkd.in/gJSicXUV>
Sam DiGiovanna is a 40 – year fire service veteran. He started with the Los Angeles County Fire Department, served as Fire Chief at the Monrovia Fire Department, and currently serves as Chief at the Verdugo Fire Academy in Glendale. He also is a consultant for www.Lexipol.com <http://www.Lexipol.com>