Seasonal Affective Disorder, also fittingly referred to as the acronym SAD, is a type of depression that occurs with the seasons. It can, of course, happen during any season, but most individuals experience symptoms during the fall and winter months. And its onset and conclusion can easily be matched up with the same seasons every year. As we are heading into the time of year when the sunlight ends early, we thought it may be fitting to discuss.

There is no definite answer as to how people become depressed during the various seasons, but researchers are confident that sunlight plays a huge role – either too much or not enough. See, the light from the sun is known to give us Vitamin D, help our body process vital nutrients and minerals, as well as affect our circadian rhythm.

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The Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) Symptoms

When it comes to Seasonal Affective Disorder, you must know the symptoms. After all, if you don’t know what to look for, then how will you know how to spot it – or seek treatment? Because SAD can occur in two different seasonal times – and with different symptoms – let’s break it down a bit.

Fall and Winter SAD symptoms may be:

• Cravings for carbohydrates
• Weight gain
• Frequently oversleeping
• Low energy/lethargy
• Heaviness in arms and legs
• Lack of interest in normal activities
• Feelings of despair and/or worthlessness
• Irritability and persistent low/bad mood
• Frequent thoughts of death or suicide

Spring and Summer SAD symptoms may be:

• Difficulty falling – and staying – asleep
• Lack of appetite
• Weight loss
• Irritability and negative mood
• Increased anxiety
• Thoughts of death or suicide

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How to Battle the Symptoms

First and foremost, if you think you are suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder, you must talk to your healthcare professional. Depression is a sign of an ailing thyroid. So, rather than just treating the symptoms, it is important to get to the root cause of your health concerns. You may very well have SAD, but you could also very well have a thyroid condition that needs to be addressed.

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For help with the symptoms of SAD, try this:

Sunlight! You are going to want to get lots of light. If you reside in an area that doesn’t often see the sun in the wintertime, consider the use of light therapy. No less than 20- to 60-minutes every single day.

Start eating better. Avoid cravings for heavy carbs, sugar, dairy, and soy. Rather, stick to a healthy, whole-food diet full of rich, leafy greens.

Get moving. Whether indoors or out, moving your body can get your blood flowing and your body revved up. Even when you don’t feel like doing it, do it. You will feel better afterward.

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Finding Natural Healing

It is so important that you do what you can to keep yourself healthy. But, when something starts to feel off, seek a healthcare professional. Conditions like Seasonal Affective Disorder can appear out of nowhere, but so can thyroid conditions, too. And they can have many of the same symptoms. So, work with someone who will get to the root cause of your health concerns, rather than just masking them or nudging them aside.

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To learn more about a natural approach to your health, contact Dr. Randy Hansbrough and his team at (772) 287-7701. Or sign up for a free, 30-minute consultation.

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