What is the catalyst that has the most impact on a person relating to Seasonal Affective disorder?

Question

I know the lack of sun, tempurature, colors and smell all play their part, but is it possibly one not getting enough Ultra-Violet Radiation?

Answer 1

YES! Seasonal Affective Disorder is common and very real. I live in Buffalo, New York. I should know. It is a direct result of not getting enough natural sun light. For most people it starts around late October and lasts until Spring. Because of this, one can experience mood swings, cravings for carbs, weight gain and depression. Here in Western New York, not everyone has it, but many do, and are not diagnosed with it. I was diagnosed with it several years back and I have found the following to help me: Please NOTE: Don't let anyone "snub" you and say that you merely have the "winter blahs". Find a doctor who is progressive enough to help you. SAD is a minor depression disorder. Unless it's really bad, it DOES NOT HAVE TO BE TREATED WITH PROZAC or anything of the likes. Try natural alternatives first.

1. GNC puts out an all-natural sleep aid call SLEEP NATURALLY. IT's about twenty dollars. All the ingredients are homeopathic, and help one get on a regular sleep pattern. Plus it has 5HTP in it, which is a natural mood elevator. IT's very important to regulate your body with sleep. (But not too much sleep.)

2. There is a special lamp that you can sit in front of for about an hour a day. Make sure the light you buy is made to specifically treat Seasonal Affective disorder... Any light that claims to, but is less than 10,000 lux DOES NOT WORK! Here's a good site to go to:
http://www.ncpamd.com/seasonal.htm
Shop around for the light. They can be on sale at various times.

3. Get out for a walk in the daylight for about 15-20 minutes a day. Even if it's not sunny out, you're still getting natural daylight, and it helps. Bundle up, and bite the bullet! The fresh air will do you good.

4. EAT well and exercise, exercise, exercise!

5. Pray/ meditate/ do yoga- whatever works to clear your mind.. Suzanne Deason has a video called "20-minute Stress Relief For Beginners". Try it, and stick with it. It has helped me significantly.

6. Keep your hands and mind active. IT's easy to slip into winter couch potatoe mode! Join a club; learn a new skill during the winter.

7. Tell yourself that the depression is TEMPORARY! I finid going on a warm vacation in February has really helped me. I'm always amazed at how much better I feel in the Spring!

Take action to "combat" your SAD early. Start this regiment BEFORE daylight savings hits us. My symptoms have been less and less each year since I have done this research, and have incorporated these few minor changes!

Best of Luck to anyone who has it!

Answer 2

The main factor in SAD is lack of sunlight, it is possible today to buy lights that you sit in front of and you can get the right amount of radiation to help your mood

Answer 3

Very possible, but I believe it's mostly due to the lack of sun.

Answer 4

I dont know about uv, I just think the person has a predisposition to being depressed, and it comes out more during winter.

Answer 5

I say the sun. You have stolen my avatatar.