Important Things You Should Know about SAD

Seasonal Affective Disorder affects significant number of people all over the world and the United States. For this reason, it is important for people to know about the disorder.

Mentioned below are some important things you should know about SAD:

1. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is in sync with natural instincts. Just as animals respond to light and hibernate in winter due to lack of light, this instinctive nature is also evident in human beings. This disorder is not new as such cases have been known since 1845. It is finally in 1980’s when it was given the name of SAD and recognized as a disorder.
2. Winter season affects people who suffer from SAD. January and February are the main months in which symptoms of SAD are experienced. During these months light is dimmer than it is in summer and causes depression.
3. One needs to recognize that s/he has a problem in order to deal with it. Getting treatment for SAD should not be viewed as ‘embarrassing’. It is essential to have some form of treatment otherwise SAD can affect your social as well as working life.
4. It is known that nearly every 6 individuals out of a 100 suffer with SAD. Almost 6% of the population suffers from this depression disorder. This is a large number and proper measures are needed to deal with it.
5. Realize the possible repercussions of leaving SAD untreated. It becomes very difficult to live a normal life, with SAD as a permanent problem occurring every year. The intensity of the disorder may worsen throughout your life, leaving you helpless.
6. Melatonin is the chief cause of SAD. Melatonin, a hormone secreted by the pineal gland, is responsible for the depressed states of an individual. This hormone is also believed to be responsible for the elevated appetite that one develops. Consuming higher levels of sugar and starch along with feeling sleepy are signs of SAD.
7. Anti-depressants are used to treat the imbalance in the pineal gland secretion. Anti-depressants are believed to be the most effective means of treating SAD. Though many are reluctant to use them for the fear of side effects, yet they are used for their effects.
8. Phototherapy is also an effective mode of treatment. Also known as light therapy, this treatment exposes the affected individual to bright artificial light. People have responded to this treatment positively.
9. Exercise helps in treating SAD. People suffering from SAD recover considerably when they exercise more. One exercise during sunlight is recommended in order to attain the intended effect.
10. Environment modification is also effective in relieving SAD. This can be done by brightening up your home with lights. Mirrors are also helpful in this regard as they save energy and create the intended exposure to light.

All these important things provide you enough information to deal with SAD in an effective manner. If you suffer from SAD, following this important information may help you overcome this disorder.