Categories: Other disorders

Seasonal Affective Disorder

Seasonal Affective Disorder

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression with a recurring seasonal pattern, with symptoms most often starting in the late fall and early winter and going away in the spring and summer. The risk of SAD is higher in people who live far from the equator and those with a personal or family history of depression. Women are more likely than men to develop SAD, and younger people have a higher risk than older ones.

Types of treatment that have been studied for SAD include medication (antidepressants), psychotherapy (such as cognitive behavioral therapy, CBT), light therapy, and dietary supplements (such as vitamin D).

Bottom Line

  • Antidepressant medications, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or bupropion, may be used for SAD.
  • A type of CBT adapted for use with SAD patients helps to relieve symptoms, and its effects may continue into subsequent winters, even without additional sessions with a therapist.
  • Light therapy involves daily exposure to bright artificial light, usually from early fall until spring. It typically requires sitting for 20 to 60 minutes each morning in front of a light box that produces much more light than ordinary indoor lighting. The idea behind light therapy is to replace the diminished sunlight of the fall and winter months. In several studies, light therapy has had beneficial effects on SAD symptoms similar to those of medication or CBT.
  • Low levels of vitamin D, caused by low dietary intake of the vitamin or not enough exposure to sunshine, have been found in people with SAD. However, it’s unclear whether vitamin D supplementation can help to relieve SAD symptoms.
  • Very little research has been done on dietary supplements other than vitamin D for SAD. A few studies involving very small numbers of people have looked at melatonin and St. John’s wort for treatment of SAD, with unclear or inconsistent results. Single small studies of vitamin B12 for treatment of SAD and Ginkgo biloba for prevention of SAD did not find that the supplements were beneficial.

Safety

  • Like other medications, those used for SAD may have side effects. Sometimes, it’s necessary to try several medications to identify one that works well without too many undesired effects.
  • CBT is generally considered safe.
  • Light therapy sometimes has side effects such as dizziness, nausea, headaches, or tired eyes. This form of treatment may not be appropriate for people with diseases of the retina, recent eye surgery, or bipolar disorder or those who are taking medicines that increase sensitivity to light.
  • Some dietary supplements may have side effects or interact with medicines. St. John’s wort is known to interact in harmful ways with a large number of medicines. Some vitamins, including vitamin D, may be toxic if taken in excessive doses. It’s a good idea to talk with your health care provider about any dietary supplement you’re considering or taking, especially if you take medicine.

This publication is not copyrighted and is in the public domain. Duplication is encouraged.

NCCIH has provided this material for your information. It is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your health care provider(s). We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with your health care provider. The mention of any product, service, or therapy is not an endorsement by NCCIH.Last Updated: June 2019

addrc

Recent Posts

Why do ADHD symptoms appear to increase during or after perimenopause?

There are several potential reasons why symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may appear…

5 days ago

Current Information on GLP-1

Information on GLP-1Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists are arguably the medication class of the moment.

5 days ago

Confronting the Fear of Being Judged: A Step-by-Step Approach

Learn effective strategies when you have ADHD to overcome fear of judgment, embrace self-compassion, and…

1 week ago

Understanding Emotional Manipulation and Ways to Combat It

Emotional manipulation, a complex form of abuse, often goes undetected within the dynamics of personal…

2 weeks ago

The Essential Skill: Learn How to Make Small Talk Effectively

The skill of engaging in small talk, especially when you have ADHD, effectively plays a…

2 weeks ago

Guide to Navigating ADHD in the Workplace: When and How to Disclose

This article will not only explore the intricacies of 'ADHD and the workplace' but also…

3 weeks ago