Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
For many, winter represents holidays, cozy sweaters and a welcome break from the summer heat. However, for more than 10 million Americans winter can mean endless fatigue, weight gain and depression.
Seasonal Affective Disorder, SAD, is a recurrent major depressive disorder that occurs for weeks to months at the same time every year. SAD is related to the reduction in daylight hours and decreased serotonin levels. This usually begins in the late fall or early winter and is resolved in the spring when sunlight exposure increases. Women between the ages of 18 to 30 are four times more likely to be diagnosed with SAD.
The most common symptoms associated with SAD include fatigue, sugar and alcohol cravings, weight gain, decreased sex drive and social withdraw. These symptoms may also be related to other issues such as a thyroid disorder or viral infection. If you experience these symptoms, then it is important to follow up with your functional medicine provider as soon as possible for a thorough medical evaluation.
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-Annamarie Salyer, FNP
