Seasonal affective disorder usually affects individuals suffering from the condition during the fall and winter months. The condition can cause depression and is believed to be associated with shortened days and reduced exposure to sunlight. There are a few treatment options for individuals suffering from seasonal affective disorder that may help reduce or eliminate symptoms.
Light Therapy
The symptoms of depression associated with seasonal affective disorder can be reduced if an individual is exposed to artificial sunlight. Using a device such as a light therapy box can trick the brain and body into believing daylight is occurring for longer periods of time. Exposure to artificial light keeps the circadian rhythm in balance, avoids excessive melatonin production, and keeps the chemicals in the brain in balance. By doing these things the exposure to artificial light keeps depressive symptoms at bay.
Medication to Control Symptoms of Depression
Individuals who fall victim to seasonal affective disorder may benefit from the temporary use of antidepressant medications. Drugs intended to treat depression work best on individuals who have a greater severity of symptoms. Common medications for SAD are Bupropion, Paxil, Zoloft, Prozac, and Effexor. Antidepressants can take a few weeks to take full effect and individuals suffering from seasonal affective disorder may be advised to start taking the medication prior to the time in which symptoms tend to occur each year. The medication can usually be stopped when the depression tends to end each year.
Talk Therapy Can Help an Individual Cope with Symptoms of SAD
Like other forms of depression, psychotherapy or talk therapy can help deal with the symptoms of seasonal affective disorder. Unlike light therapy or medication, talk therapy may not eliminate symptoms but can help treat underlying issues that make symptoms worse. Individuals suffering from SAD may have negative thoughts and behaviors typical of depression such as isolation. Retraining an individual with seasonal affective disorder to combat negative thoughts with positive ones can help them think more clearly and feel better. Helping an individual who is depressed fight the urge to avoid normal activities and friends can keep them from going even further into a depression.
Individuals who suffer from seasonal affective disorder year after year can take comfort in knowing there is help available and should speak openly and honestly with a physician to find a treatment option that will work best for them.
References:
Mayo Clinic Staff. Seasonal Affective Disorder: Treatment and Drugs. Retrieved on April 23, 2010.
Mayo Clinic Staff. Light Therapy. Retrieved on April 23, 2010.
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