Home Health & Personal Care

What is Seasonal Affective Disorder?

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is also commonly known as the winter blues. This is a mental health problem that strikes men and women during the months when there isn't as much sunlight.

There is no known "cure" for the winter blues, and it eventually improves once spring arrives and the days become longer.

The following are symptoms of SAD:

depressed mood
decreased energy
particular food cravings
If you are affected by SAD, try and get outdoors and into the sunlight as often as possible. Exercise regularly, preferably outdoors, or close to a window that lets in sunlight. If possible, take a vacation to a hot and sunny destination.

Some SAD sufferers use phototherapy (also known as light therapy). Others use medication to control SAD, often in combination with phototherapy.