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Natural Medicines - Light Therapy What we should know about SAD By Dr. Brindusa Vanta, B.Sc, M.D (Euro) According to American Psychiatric Association (APA) symptoms of depression that come during the colder months can be associated with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). This mood disorder is often attributed to the lack of light during the colder months of the year, especially January and February. SAD has been linked to a biochemical imbalance in the brain brought on by the shortening of daylight hours and lack of sunlight in the winter. Younger persons and women are thought to be at higher risk. There is also evidence to suggest that the farther someone lives from the equator, the more likely they are develop SAD. Symptoms that may be associated with SAD include: • Excessive sleeping, difficulty staying awake, overeating and weight gain during the fall or winter months • Feelings of extreme fatigue, inability to maintain regular lifestyle schedule • Depression (feelings of sadness, loss of feelings, apathy) combined with irritability • Lack of interest in social interaction, losing interest in activities of enjoyment • Remission of symptoms in the spring and summer months In a very small number of cases, annual relapse occurs in the summer instead of the fall and winter, possibly in response to heat and humidity. During that period, the depression is more likely to be characterized by insomnia, decreased appetite, weight loss, and agitation or anxiety. Those suffering from mild cases of SAD can benefit from additional exposure to the sun. This can include a long walk outside or arranging your home or office so that you are exposed to a window during the day. For many suffering from more severe cases of the condition, light therapy (photo therapy) has a proven effective treatment option. Additional relief has been found with psychotherapy sessions, and in some cases, prescription of antidepressants. American Psychiatric Association website: www.healthyminds.org