Tuesday, January 31, 2012

Symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder

Following a discussion on what seasonal affective disorder is and what causes it, it's only natural to now discuss the signs and symptoms of the disorder itself.

The Mayo Clinic lists the following as symptoms of fall and winter SAD (source):

  • Depression
  • Hopelessness
  • Anxiety
  • Loss of Energy
  • Heavy, "leaden" feeling in the arms or legs
  • Social withdrawal
  • Oversleeping
  • Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed
  • Appetite changes, especially a craving for foods high in carbohydrates
  • Weight gain
  • Difficulty concentrating
Of course if an individual is experiencing this symptoms year round, it's likely they are experiencing depression, and not specifically seasonal affective disorder. And, of course, we all have days that we feel at least some of these feelings. However, if you are experiencing this symptoms for more days then not for a few weeks, it is important to contact your health care provider. If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, please contact your doctor, go to the hospital, or call 911.

Now it's your turn:
After looking at this list, do you think either you or someone close to you has experienced SAD? 

4 comments:

  1. Great post! I have found a lot of my student (work at a college), struggle with this!

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  2. I was just commenting in #commenthour that I didn't know why I was so hyper today. I think your post just solved the mystery for me! Today the weather was beautiful. Today I went OUTSIDE. It was amazing. I don't think I was suffering from SAD as of yet, but had this wonderful break in the cold not come today, maybe I was on my way!

    Great post. Thanks. I'll tell my hubby to keep an extra close eye for these symptoms!

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  3. Hummmm.. I feel a lot of those is the miserable winter months in michigan! #commenthour

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  4. Very timely post. I haven't had to deal with this issue, but I can see how the winter can be bleak for many. Sunshine gives you that extra energy and sense of well being and peace. I always feel centered and rejuvenated after an afternoon outside on a sunny day.

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