SEASONAL DEPRESSION

Seasonal depression, or seasonal affective disorder (SAD), impacts around 2 to 3% of the Canadian population, with symptoms typically emerging in the fall and winter months, particularly in November, December, and January. This condition is more prevalent in regions farther from the equator, where reduced sunlight exposure during winter is a contributing factor.

Causes: Seasonal depression is attributed to decreased sunlight exposure during winter, leading to alterations in hormone and neurotransmitter levels, such as melanin and serotonin, resulting in a hormonal imbalance associated with SAD.

Persons at Risk: Women are three times more likely than men to experience seasonal depression. Although it is more common among younger adults aged 20 to 30, it can also affect children.

Symptoms: Symptoms manifest from October to April, with an absence of symptoms during the summer months. Common signs include difficulty concentrating, an uncontrollable desire for sweets and subsequent weight gain, fatigue, lack of energy, and feelings of sadness.

Diagnosis: A physician diagnoses depression by evaluating symptoms. Distinguishing seasonal depression from standard depression can be challenging, but over time, the diagnosis becomes more precise.

Treatment: Phototherapy (light therapy) is a prevalent treatment, simulating sunlight effects through daily exposure to artificial light using a light box providing at least 10,000 Lux for 30 minutes a day, preferably in the morning. In severe cases, antidepressants may be prescribed, and vitamin D supplements have shown effectiveness in mitigating seasonal affective disorder symptoms.

Prevention: Preventive measures include spending an hour outdoors daily to increase sunlight exposure, incorporating outdoor exercise to enhance well-being, and making home adjustments like reorganizing workspaces near windows, keeping curtains open during the day, painting walls in light colors, and strategically placing mirrors for enhanced natural light. Additionally, traveling to warm and sunny destinations can provide relief for individuals with seasonal depression.