google.com, pub-6983070578797176, DIRECT, f08c47fec0942fa0

SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER (SAD)

Seasonal Affective Disorder 1

Seasonal Affective Disorder or (SAD), what is it?

I decided to include this article on Straighten-Up-Now.com for two reasons. First, because many people suffer from this without even knowing they have it or what they can do about it. Second, I believe it can be a part of many people's struggle with disorganization especially during the winter months.

I hope you find value, inspiration and help below.

Note: The words in [] are mine and not the authors.


What is
Seasonal Affective Disorder
a/k/a SAD?

By Vicki L. Dihle, PA-C

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a form of depression that appears around the same time each year. It affects people of all ages, though onset usually happens between ages 18 and 30. While SAD most commonly occurs in the winter, it can affect people at any time of the year. Symptoms often begin gradually and progressively worsen.


What Are the Symptoms
of SAD

  • Unexplained fatigue
  • Changes in mood
  • [Feelings of] Hopelessness or helplessness
  • Loss of interest in things that normally bring pleasure
  • Changes in sleep patterns
  • Changes in appetite -- often an increased craving for sugary or high carbohydrate foods
  • Weight gain [maybe because of bullet above?]
  • Difficulty concentrating

What Causes SAD?

Seasonal Affective Disorder 2

The exact cause is unknown. Scientists suspect a genetic link in some cases. Changes in seasons and decreased light exposure may bring on a biochemical imbalance. Additional factors include:

  • Disruption of circadian rhythm (the body's "internal clock," which lets your body know when to sleep or awaken)
  • Changes in melatonin, a sleep-related hormone that has been linked to depression
  • Impaired regulation of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that affects mood

How Common Is It?

How Common Is It?

  • An estimated six out of every 100 people get SAD.
  • Prevalence varies by region; SAD is more common in people who live farther from the equator.
  • If affects more women than men, but men tend to have more severe symptoms.

How Is It Treated?

Seasonal Affective Disorder 3
  1. Increased exposure to sunlight can be beneficial.
  2. Sitting under a special fluorescent lamp for 30 to 90 minutes per day (known as phototherapy) can have positive results.
  3. Other treatments include antidepressants and counseling.
  4. Non-medical interventions such as regular exercise, a well-balanced diet and time with friends may also be helpful.

What If I Suspect SAD
in a Loved One?

Someone affected by SAD may not recognize the symptoms because of the gradual onset; a loved one, however, may notice them more easily.

If you suspect SAD, schedule an appointment with a primary health-care provider. And be encouraged: SAD will dissipate with the new season, and effective treatments are available. [End of Article]


I hope you found this article on seasonal affective disorder (SAD) helpful and informative.


Links to Other Information

Go to: ADD-ADHD

Go to: ADD & Organizing

Go to: Causes of Stress

Go to: Clutter Help

Go to: Compulsive Hoarder

Go to: Helpful Articles

Go to: Procrastinate

Go to: What is S.A.D.


Click the lavender bar on the left and subscribe to the RSS feed to be notified of new listings as they become available.



Did you like this?  Please share it! Thanks in advance.


No matter where you are in life (stay-at-home mom, full or part time employee, retired, etc.) you can make a good income with a website.  Whether you write books, make crafts or something else, I highly recommend SBI.  It's the reason for this website.  Check it out below and become another solopreneur!

Hello!  This is Shelly Morton, the author of this website. I know you hear a lot of hype about making money from home and building a successful website.  I speak from experience as a solopreneur, I have succeeded with Solo Build It! There is simply no better way to build an online business.  Nothing else compares.  It's not a "get rich quick" scheme.  SBI provides you with all the tools and tips you need to be successful.  You put in the work and SBI will help you succeed!  SBI is simply the BEST way to get started for any "solopreneur."


Return to top of Seasonal Affective Disorder

Home|About Me|Site Map|Contact Me|What's New?|