Health Guide

	Health Encyclopedia
	Lab Tests

Drug Guide

	DrugNotes
	Spanish DrugNotes
	Detailed Drug Information
	Alternative Medicine

Images

Forms of depres...

 

Seasonal affective disorder

Definition

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a form of depression that occurs in relation to the seasons, most commonly beginning in winter.

Causes

The disorder may begin in adolescence or early adulthood. Like other forms of depression, it occurs more frequently in women than in men. Most people with the "winter blahs" or "cabin fever" do not have SAD.

The cause of SAD is not known, but it is thought to be related to numerous factors, including:

• Ambient light
• Body temperature
• Hormone regulation

A rare form occurs in the summer.

Symptoms

• Afternoon slumps with decreased energy and concentration
• Carbohydrate cravings
• Decreased interest in work or other activities
• Depression that starts in fall or winter
• Increased appetite with weight gain
• Increased sleep and excessive daytime sleepiness
• Lack of energy
• Slow, sluggish, lethargic movement
• Social withdrawal

Exams and Tests

A visit to your health care provider will look for other causes of the symptoms and confirm the diagnosis. A psychological evaluation may be needed for more severe depression.

See also: Depression

Treatment

As with other types of depression, antidepressant medications and talk therapy can be effective. Light therapy using a special lamp to mimic light from the sun may also be helpful.

Symptoms commonly get better on their own with the change of seasons.

Outlook (Prognosis)

The outcome is good with continuous treatment, although some people have the disorder throughout their lives.

Possible Complications

Seasonal affective disorder can sometimes progress to a major depressive syndrome.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you experience symptoms of seasonal affective disorder.

Prevention

Individuals who have had recurrent seasonal depression should speak with a mental health care professional to explore treatments.

References

Lurie Sj, Gawinski B, Pierce D, Rousseau SJ. Seasonal affective disorder. American Family Physician. 2006;74:1521-1524.

Agerter DC, Rasmussen NH, Sutor B. Depression. In: Rakel RE, ed. Textbook of Family Medicine. 7th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 58.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

---