SEASONAL
Winter Depression (Seasonal Affective Disorder/Seasonal Affective Disorder); It is a disorder in which interest in activities that occur in the autumn and winter seasons decreases and emotions, thoughts and behaviors are negatively affected. It begins to disappear with the arrival of spring. As a result of research conducted in our country, it has been determined that the incidence varies between 4% and 8%.
Causes:
- Lack of sunlight,
- Short days,
- People staying in closed spaces for a long time,
- Biological factors (Secretion states of serotonin and melatonin hormones, which are linked to our sleep and energy levels. When sunlight increases, serotonin hormone also increases and gives the person happiness and vitality. However, as the days get shorter in these seasons, the serotonin level decreases. The melatonin hormone increases in the dark and this high level of melatonin causes sleepiness and fatigue in the person. )
Employees, This decrease in energy and motivation levels as well as depressive symptoms; It may cause a decrease in work performance or job losses.
Seasonal depression is not a condition seen only in humans; every living thing may experience some physical and spiritual changes as it transitions to a new season. Some animals even hibernate during these stagnant periods.
Symptoms generally seen in autumn and winter months:
- Sad mood,
- Anxiety
- Feeling of guilt
- Lack of desire for things they normally enjoy doing
- Change in appetite,
- Disruption of sleep pattern >
- Loss of energy in the body, laziness
- Sexual reluctance,
- Feeling of worthlessness,
- Loss of concentration,
- A state of withdrawal from social life
Precautions that can be taken for seasonal depression:
- Going to bed early at night and waking up early in the morning (This It will allow you to benefit more from sunlight.)
- Exercising regularly
- Walking outdoors
- Pass your lunch breaks by taking walks to benefit from daylight. to eat
- Consuming foods rich in vitamins
- Using sunlight-coloured light bulbs (daylight bulbs) in the evening
Treatment: strong>
When symptoms of seasonal depression are observed, it is necessary to seek support from a psychiatrist or psychologist.
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