Article by: Julia Hartlep Photos by: Simrah Ahmad We’re all acquainted, at least superficially, with depressive disorders. However, most people aren’t aware of the many different types. One of the most “common” types, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), affects around five percent of adults in America. With symptoms typical to depression, SAD is related to the changes in the seasons within the year. But what does this actually mean? Usually, those who are affected by SAD will experience symptoms within the fall and winter seasons, but can also experience them within spring, or even early summer. Many hypothesize that the symptoms of SAD come into play as a consequence of the new lack of sunlight found within these seasons. In fact, living further from the equator can heighten the risk of this disorder, and the symptoms associated. This disorder can overlap with others, most commonly bipolar disorder. The compounding of these two disorders can elevate the already apparent dynamics of mania and depression through the seasons--especially as the sun appears for less time. Therefore, a common course of treatment is phototherapy (light therapy). Many also utilize medications and/or “normal” psychotherapy. However, this almost always has to start with seeking out a doctor’s advice. There are some steps to soothing these symptoms that you can take from home. Some things as simple as allowing more light into your home or going outside more has shown to be effective, though this is obviously limited to your natural environment. Physical activity has also been claimed to help ease the stress that is associated with SAD. Although it might seem daunting with the symptoms associated with SAD, looking after your own health (physical and mental) can both help prevent and treat disorders such as these. This includes the previously mentioned physical activity, but can also refer to your sleep schedule and stress management.
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