Do the ‘winter blues’ gotcha down?
By DIANA PADDOCK Features EditorCabin fever? Sick of snow? Ready for spring?
If winter's got you down, you're not alone, but if winter's got you despondent, you may be suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
SAD is a "subset of major depression," according to Larry Koppelman, a licensed clinical social worker at Family Services of Warren County. SAD sufferers "typically begin to experience symptoms after Thanksgiving, when the amount of sunlight decreases," Koppelman said. "They will usually then have the illness and it will go away by spring ... it is directly related to the amount (lack) of sunlight. Many people do fine the rest of the year, so it's really distinct that way, and it seems to be more connected to (lack of) sunlight" than other forms of depression.
"For many people, a lack of sunlight won't affect them," Koppelman said. "For some, it will result in some winter blues. But for one segment of the population, it will give them SAD" and sap their energy.
Although there are no SAD statistics specific to Warren County, research shows that people who live in more northern climes are more vulnerable (to SAD), Koppelman explained.
So what's a Warrenite to do?
"Try to expose yourself to as much light as you can," Koppelman said. Natural light is best.
"So if it's sunny outside, go outside," he said. And exercise seems to help, too.
Some people purchase light boxes, a form of full-spectrum light that they sit in front of for 20 to 30 minutes per day.
"That seems to give them that sense of sunlight that helps to regulate the SAD," Koppelman explained. But light boxes can be expensive, and insurance companies don't usually pay for them. Also, light boxes don't work for everyone.
Certainly, if the symptoms worsen, Koppelman said, "it's probably time to see a professional."
Cognitive therapy can be helpful, and, if necessary, medication can be prescribed.
