SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER
People may reject the
accusation that a shift in the weather can cause depression in some
individuals. Seasonal depression can be cause by the lack of sunlight during
the winter for those very sensitive individuals. It may be argued that
everybody goes through these varying weather patterns without any difficulty. This
past weekend was a challenge for me…I am tired of gloomy overcast and cold
weather! I know it is all about finding the “good” in each and every day, but
this weekend was a tough one. There is a medical reason why some of us encounter
depression because of the weather and also there are treatments available.
The
changing of the seasons for many people can be a time of struggle against a
form of depression called Seasonal Affective Disorder, commonly known as SAD,
It is a specific type of depression that only appears during a certain time of
year, most often during the fall or winter, according to the Diagnostic and
Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV). I have known a few people, including
myself, that struggle with SAD.
One known effective
treatment for SAD is light; patients sit under special lights with full
spectrum light bulbs. Other tips to help treat your seasonal depression:
· Stay connected with friends, support is important.
· Change the light bulbs in your home to those
that are more like natural light.
· Exercise, such as walking the mall or on a
treadmill
· Maintaining a positive attitude can do wanders
for your heart
· Managing time wisely to reduce any added
stress
· Eat healthy well balanced meals
It is important that your surrounding environment be kept as
bright as possible for the longest time possible as well. May this wellness tip
brighten YOUR day!
Nancy Larson, CWCC
Human Resources Director
Delaware County Government
Tel: 765.741.3397
Fax: 765.284.5831
No comments:
Post a Comment