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Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
What is Seasonal Affective Disorder?
SAD is a type of
depression that usually occurs during the fall and winter months when there is
less daylight.
What are the causes of SAD?
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The causes of SAD are not known, but
genetics and age may be a factor.
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There are a couple of theories about
the causes of SAD:
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Abnormalities in how the body manages
its internal biological clock. The circadian rhythm may not be
inline with the 24 hour circadian cycle.
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The role of Melatonin, which is a
hormone that helps control body temperature, hormone secretion and
sleep. It is produced in a specific brain area during hours of darkness. For
those with SAD, Melatonin
is produced more during low-light months, which can lead to symptoms of
depression.
Are there any symptoms of SAD?
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The following are common symptoms of
SAD:
Mood changes: increased sadness,
irritability, and anxiety
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Appetite changes: increased appetite and cravings for carbohydrates and sweets
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Weight gain
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Sleep and activity changes: increased sleep duration, lower quality of rest, and
daytime fatigue
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Menstrual difficulties
What treatment is available for SAD?
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The most common treatments of SAD are
light therapy, medications, and psychotherapy
What is Light Therapy?
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Light therapy is a common treatment
for SAD which consists of the person sitting in front of a light box.
The light box gives off a type and intensity of light that is not found in
normal household lighting. The light box
also mimics outdoor light.
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Light therapy, when used consistently,
causes biochemical changes in the brain that can lift mood and relieve
symptoms of SAD. It can suppress the brain’s production of Melatonin to regulate
the body’s internal clock.
How do you use Light Therapy?
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To increase the effectiveness of
therapy, the light must enter your eyes indirectly, not directly.
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The three key elements of light
therapy are intensity, duration, and timing
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Intensity: The light’s intensity is
10000 lux
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Duration: Duration of each session is
approximately 30 minutes
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Timing: Light therapy is most
effective in the morning
What are the benefits of Light Therapy?
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Alternative to medications, such as
antidepressants
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Supplement to psychotherapy
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Light box requires no prescription.
(Available in Counseling Center)
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Can use while reading, watching TV,
working out, etc.
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Can start to feel better within a few
days or few weeks
Are there any drawbacks of Light Therapy?
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therapy, on a rare occasion, may trigger episodes of mania in people with
bipolar disorder. There have
also been reports of thoughts of suicide after treatment for those with severe
depression.
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Light therapy alone may not be fully
effective.
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Light therapy is not officially
approved by the FDA as treatment of SAD due to the lack of sufficient evidence.
What are the side effects of Light therapy?
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The following are some reported side
effects of Light therapy, but they are fairly uncommon.
Eyestrain
Irritability
Headache
Fatigue
Agitation Dry Mouth
Nausea Sleep Disruptions
Insomnia
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To reduce side
effects:
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Reduce treatment time
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Move
farther away from the light box
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Take
breaks during long sessions
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Change
the time of day light therapy is used
When should
someone NOT use Light Therapy?
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Skin is sensitive to light
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You take medications that react with
sunlight
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You have an eye condition that makes
your eyes vulnerable to light damage
To learn more about Light Therapy at the Counseling
Center, see our Appointments & Services page.
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