SAD warning signs

Seasonal affective disorder has not long been classified as a genuine disorder. The term only first appeared in 1985 and existing treatment methods, though effective, are still being researched. It took until June of 2006 for the US Food and Drug Administration to approve the use of Wellbutrin XL for the treatment of depressive symptoms caused by seasonal affective disorder.

Since the affliction is fairly new to the American public, many suffer from seasonal affective disorder and not even know it. This problem can be compounded if the person is misdiagnosed with depression, anxiety, or some other such condition that is similar to that of seasonal affective disorder.Here are some warning signs that someone may be suffering from seasonal affective disorder:

• Lethargy or general lack of energy, especially during winter months.
• Depression and feelings of worthlessness, especially during winter months.
• Unaccountable body aches and muscle pains, particularly during winter months.
• Unexplainable suicidal thoughts.
• Exceptionally poor sleeping habits. Particularly insomnia and having a hard time waking. Nearly 90% of all seasonal affective disorder sufferers experience a need for more sleep than usual.
• Uncontrollable and otherwise unexplainable depression that recur yearly around the same time and last throughout the winter months.
• Overeating for no explainable reason. Over 70% of seasonal affective disorder sufferers report eating more than usual, particularly during bouts of extreme depression. Around 80% report an uncontrollable and otherwise unexplainable craving for carbohydrates and sugary sweets. Unsurprisingly, nearly the exact same percentage of around 80% report gaining weight.
• Thoughts of suicide, especially during winter months.
• A complete or nearly complete remission of all adverse symptoms at the change of seasons from winter to spring, only to have them return with the return of cold weather.

Not surprisingly, the instances of seasonal affective disorder rises the farther north from the Equator one travels. Interestingly, however, the existence of snow in a particular geographical location seems to diminish the incidences of seasonal affective disorder.

The first course of action a person should take if they believe they may be afflicted with seasonal affective disorder is to speak to a healthcare professional that is familiar with the syndrome and discuss possible treatment options such as medication and light therapy. Since seasonal affective disorder recurs each year, treatments will most likely be required to be utilized for an indefinite period of time, particularly during the winter months.