What is Seasonal Affective Disorder and How to Treat it?

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), also known as winter depression or winter blues, is a mood disorder in which people who have normal mental health throughout most of the year experience depressive symptoms during a specific season.

This condition is now recognized as a common disorder, and affects as many as 6 of every 100 people in North America.

People affected by SAD generally experience a serious mood change when the seasons change. In many SAD scenarios this is during the winter months. Also, the number of cases increases depending on the region, such as regions with long lasting winters (4-6 months) and shorter days (daylight of 5 hours or less).

People who suffer from SAD may sleep too much, have little energy, and may also feel depressed. Though symptoms can be severe, they are usually not permanent.
There are many different treatments for seasonal affective disorder, including light therapy.

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