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Seasonal Affective Disorder

Also indexed as:Depression (Seasonal), SAD, Seasonal Depression, Winter Depression

A cold and dark winter can trigger depression in people who suffer from SAD. According to research or other evidence, the following self-care steps may be helpful.

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A cold and dark winter can trigger depression in people who suffer from SAD. According to research or other evidence, the following self-care steps may be helpful.

Add more D to your diet
See a qualified health practitioner to find out if you are low in vitamin D, and if you should take large amounts under medical supervision to help improve mood and well-being
Soak in the sun
Spend more time outdoors to help improve the regulation of important brain chemicals that affect mood
Try light therapy
Reduce symptoms by using a full-spectrum fluorescent light during dark mornings or evenings
Check out St. John’s wort
This well-known herbal remedy may improve mild to moderate depression; take 900 mg a day of a standardized extract
Work in a workout
Get an hour of aerobic or anaerobic exercise three times a week in bright light to improve mood

References

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The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires June 2013.