Seasonal Affective Disorder – SAD

Whenever winter approaches do you feel irritated or grumpy? Lose interest in daily activities? Well this is not about mere liking’s or disliking but could be a disorder, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) or sometimes coined as ‘winter depression’. Not only during winters can people be its prey during summers too. Symptoms: Feeling depressed almost everyday Lower energy levels Disliking the liked things Oversleeping Appetite changes, as it increases carbohydrate cravings Weight gain Over emotional Causes: Reduction in Serotonin levels – an element that affects our mood. Disruption of Melatonin levels – an element that affects our sleep Biological clock - it affects our sleep and wake pattern. Who are at risk? Gender – Occurrence of SAD is more in females. Age – Younger generation are more likely at risk. Location – People living far from equator in Cold areas tend to be its prey Family History - people having anyone in the family suffering SAD bears the risk of developing Seasonal Affective Disorder. Dangers Suicidal thoughts Social aloofness Problems at workplaces Prevention Regular exercise Increase Vitamin D intake Increase the intake of Omega 3 Curtail fast food from your diet