Has the lack of sunshine effected anyone else's depression?

Question

I have noticed the lack of light bothering me and aggrovating my depression and anxiety. I am taking my meds for both like I am supposed to, but ugh.

Answer 1

You may have SAD, or Seasonal Affective Disorder. See your Psychiatrist for further info on treatment options.

Answer 2

The same thing happens to me.. but i like the dark better than the light because it bothers my eyes and I get horrible migranes.

If you are depressed during the shorter days of winter but feel happier and more energetic in spring and summer, you may have seasonal affective disorder (SAD). SAD is a type of depression that affects you at the same time each year, usually in the fall or winter. But as the days lengthen in spring and summer, the depression lifts.

What causes SAD?
Shorter days of winter and lack of light are considered one cause of seasonal depression, especially for people who move to extreme northern climates, where winter days are very short or seasonal differences in the amount of daylight are extreme.1, 2 However, researchers are studying other possible causes, including disturbances in the body's natural biological clock (circadian rhythms) or problems with the regulation of a brain chemical (neurotransmitter) called serotonin.

Here is a link to webmd.. on sad. and or other depression.

Answer 3

Depression because of short winter daylight hours is a problem for a lot of people. I live in the Pacific Northwest near Seattle, and the University of Washington has done a fair amount of research on it. One thing that has been recommended is to use full-spectrum lighting in your home. This helps simulate daylight, which in turn helps your brain produce endorphins. There are quite a few good sources online for full-spectrum bulbs, both fluorescent and incandescent. They cost a bit more than "standard" bulbs, but in my opinion they're well worth the extra cost.

Answer 4

Well, there is a medical condition where people need the UV rays of the sun to release dopamine into their system. My mother-in-law is affected by this. I know I sure feel nice, warm, good after I go tan. In cities (I'm sure you've heard about Seattle) where the weather is gloomy, or gets little-to-no sunlight, there are higher rates of depression and suicidal ideation and successful suicide competions.

Answer 5

Yup. I don't have clinic depression, but I know for a fact that the fall into winter transition triggers a deep gloomy sadness in me.. I believe I have a bit of season depression or something... I don't take any meds... cause I don't feel i need to. This is something that happens every year, but God helps me through it

Answer 6

Its clinicaly proven that a lack of sunlight can effect your depression and just generally make you sad. In Alaska when there are periods without sun they have lights that create artificial sunlight. Try tanning, I know that its not that good for you, but it always helps boost my mood and it makes me feel better about how I look.

Answer 7

Yeah see fog makes me more depressed too. just try to think of other things. Turn on all the lights and keep warm. It will be sunny again eventually.

Answer 8

Go buy yourself lights that imitate sunshine. They have them and this may help you a lot. Good luck!

Answer 9

take vitamin D supplements. your brain is powered by vitamins and nutrients, not pharmasuticals. change your diet or take a comprehensive multi-vitamin like GNC's mega line. it will help with your whole general wellbeing, especially your mind

Answer 10

try using exposure to multi-spectrum light while indoors.