Seasonal affective disorder (MDD) is a type of depression associated with seasonal changes; It starts and ends at the same time almost every year. For the majority of people with seasonal affective disorder, symptoms begin in the fall and continue through the winter months, with depression occurring less frequently in the spring and summer. In both cases, symptoms start mildly and become more severe as the season progresses.
Symptoms:
Feeling depressed throughout the day, almost every day. loss of interest in activities they enjoy, decreased energy level, sleep problems, changes in appetite or weight, feeling moody, inconsistent, worthless, hopeless, guilty, difficulty concentrating, frequently thinking about death or suicide.
Winter-onset MDD is sometimes called "WINTER DEPRESSION" and;
-Excessive sleeping,
-Appetite changes, especially craving for carbohydrate-rich foods, weight gain,
-It progresses with symptoms such as fatigue or low energy.
When to see a psychiatrist:
It's normal for all of us to be in a low mood some days. However, if you cannot find the energy or even be motivated to do activities that you normally enjoy doing for days, you should see a psychiatrist. It is especially important to consult a specialist if your sleep and appetite patterns have changed, if you resort to alcohol to relax and unwind, if you have feelings of hopelessness or if you are thinking about suicide.
Reasons for Occurrence:
The decrease in sunlight in autumn and winter changes the settings of the internal biological clock in our body. It can cause depression and lead to depression.
Low sunlight can lead to a decrease in serotonin (a brain neurotransmitter that affects mood), triggering depression.
Seasonal changes can disrupt the balance in melatonin levels, which play an important role in sleep patterns and mood.
Risk factors:
Winter depression is more common in women than in men. g It is more common in young adults than in older people. There is a higher risk of seasonal depression in people with a family history of depression, those with a history of major depression or bipolar mood disorder, and people living in areas far from the equator.
Treatment:
Seasonal depression Light therapy (phototherapy), antidepressant medications and psychotherapy are used in the treatment of affective disorders. Those with a history of bipolar disorder should report this to their doctor. Because both light therapy and antidepressant medications have the potential to trigger a manic episode.
Lifestyle suggestions:
Keep your curtains open to let more sunlight into your home and office.
Go outside in the morning and at noon and benefit from sunlight.
Make sure to exercise regularly, get enough sleep, and eat healthy.
Do not turn to alcohol or other addictive substances to relax.
Learn ways to cope with stress.
Socialize and, if possible, travel to sunny and warm places during the winter months.
Read: 0
