1. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) How to Combat the Winter Time Blues Submitted by: Keith Tankersley Ohio Wesleyan University

2. What is SAD • Also known as “Winter Depression” or “Winter Blues”. • Is a mood disorder in which people experience depressive symptoms in the winter. • First described and named in 1984 by Norman E. Rosenthal. • People can also experience SAD in the summer, spring, and fall.

3. Causes of SAD • What causes SAD is not known, but it is thought to be related to numerous things like: • Ambient Light • Body Temperature • Hormone Regulation

4. Symptoms of SAD • Difficulty waking up in the morning. • An interrupted sleeping pattern • Morning sickness. • Tendency to overeat and oversleep. • Weight gain. • Lack of Energy. • Difficulty focusing and completing a task. • Withdrawal from family, friends, and social activities. • Feelings of hopelessness, depression, and lack of pleasure.

5. Treatment of SAD • Light Therapy • Using a special lamp to mimic light from the sun. • Gives the body Vitamin D that it lacks in the Winter time. • Person must sit in front of the light for at least 30 minutes three times a week. • Medications • As with other forms of depression, antidepressants seem to have a positive affect. • Talk Therapy • Talking with a trained professional about the issues and feelings one is facing.

6. More Ways to Fight SAD • Vitamins • Multivitamins • Omega 3 • Vitamin B6 • Get Outside • Even though it is quite chilly, get outside and enjoy some good ole’ mother nature. • Fresh oxygen will help lighten the mood. • Exercise • Doing physical activities releases “pleasure hormones” and makes you a happier person!