Seasonal Affective Disorder [SAD] and Bipolar Disorder

There are several disorders that have similar symptoms and causes. It is because of the similar patterns or characteristics that a particular disorder may be aligned with or misdiagnosed as another disorder. In view of this it is worth noting the specifics of particular disorders so that they may be easily recognized and readily treated.

SAD and Bipolar Disorder

Diagnosing Seasonal Affective Disorder can be a problem if all aspects are not considered. Over viewing only the major aspects means that the diagnosis would be incomplete. To accurately diagnose the disorder, it is vital that you know about all its symptoms and characteristics.

Keeping in view the similarities between two or more disorders, it would not be wrong to say that there is a relationship between seasonal affective disorder [SAD] and bipolar disorder. It is an established fact that people suffering from bipolar disorder are at high risk of suffering from SAD.

Similarities between SAD and Bipolar Disorder

Some of the similarities that are found in both the disorders are:

1. Depression at fall
2. Hypomania in spring
3. Symptoms of bipolar disorder include loss of sleep, loss of interest in any activity, disturbance in appetite, anxiety, sadness etc
4. SAD is recognized as DSM - IV a subtype of major depression episode with symptoms like small appetite, less sleep and weight loss. Some individuals suffering from SAD had a ‘atypical depression’ that increased sleep and appetite with decreased energy and lethargy.  

In some people, SAD was accompanied by mild to severe manic mood swings in spring and summer. If such episodes persist and continue for long time, the individual may be suffering from bipolar disorder too.  Thus, there are a number of similarities between SAD and bipolar disorder than can make a doctor test a patient for both these disorders.

There are many forms of treatment that benefit individuals suffering from SAD or winter depression as well as bipolar disorder. The light box or light therapy is the best that helps in making up for the lack of light in winter. Use of ‘dawn gadget’ has also been recommended by healthcare professionals.

Apart from that medicines are given to control the depression and anxiety faced by the patient. Research is still underway to find a more effective treatment for SAD as well as bipolar disorder.

Thus, if an individual has suffered from seasonal affective disorder for a long time and shows symptoms like decreased energy and lethargy even after getting enough sleep and eating more than usual, s/he should be check for bipolar disorder. If not treated on time, it may become difficult to diagnose and treat this depressive disorder. It is better to consult a specialist before giving any treatment to the patient to remain on the safe side.