![\"Seasonal](\"http:\/\/jamaicahospital.org\/newsletter\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/seasonal-affective-disorder-1129211267.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nThe exact cause of Seasonal Affective Disorder is unknown; however, according to the American Psychiatric Association, \u201cSAD has been linked to a biochemical imbalance in the brain prompted by shorter daylight hours and less sunlight in winter.\u201d Decreased levels of sunlight have been found to disrupt melatonin (a hormone that regulates our sleep-wake cycle) and serotonin (a chemical that regulates mood) levels in the body. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Those affected by the disorder may find that they have sleep\nissues, difficulty concentrating, and increased cravings for unhealthy foods\nthat can contribute to weight gain and low energy, as well as other symptoms\nassociated with depression such as feelings of hopelessness or thoughts about\nsuicide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Treatment for SAD may include phototherapy, medications and\npsychotherapy. Your doctor may also recommend lifestyle changes such as\nincreasing your exposure to natural light. This can be achieved by doing more outdoor\nactivities such as walking, jogging and hiking. Increasing physical activity is also strongly encouraged\nas this has been found time and time again, to reduce levels of stress and\nanxiety which improve symptoms of SAD. In addition to improving your mood,\nphysical activity can help to control or lose weight. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Paying attention to your eating habits is very important. Those\nwith SAD are at an increased risk for emotional eating and making poor dietary\nchoices. Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet can help you to manage your\nweight and sustain energy. Avoiding alcohol is highly recommended. Alcohol acts\nas a depressant, which in excess can worsen depressive symptoms<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Practicing meditation or yoga as well as receiving acupuncture or massage\ntherapy have been found to decrease anxiety and stress levels, improving mental\nand physical health overall. It is also important to surround yourself with\nfriends and family, this allows for less alone time and strong social support. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If the symptoms of SAD persist, consider cognitive psychotherapy\nand or SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) treatment to relieve\ndepressive symptoms and address underlying difficulties. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you are struggling with SAD, you do not need to feel alone. It\nis estimated that 10-20% of Americans suffer from SAD. It is important to seek\nhelp if you are experiencing issues at work or school, substance abuse or other\nsigns of mental health disorders, especially suicidal thoughts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
To speak with or see a Family Medicine doctor about Seasonal Affective Disorder, please call 718- 206-6942 <\/p>\n\n\n\n All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.<\/strong> <\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression experienced by people during the beginning of the fall months through winter. The exact cause of Seasonal Affective Disorder is unknown; however, according to the American Psychiatric Association, \u201cSAD has been … Continue reading ![\"\"](\"http:\/\/jamaicahospital.org\/newsletter\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/marwa-768x512.jpg\")