How to Combat Symptoms of SAD

Winter is here again and so are the symptoms of SAD (seasonal affective disorder) if you are one of the 2.5 million people who suffer from this form of depression. When someone suffers from SAD, he may exhibit symptoms such as mood swings, social withdrawal, fatigue, eating more than usual, feelings of sadness and fear and a loss of interest in sex. A combination of these symptoms can take a toll on the SAD sufferer if left untreated. If you have been diagnosed with Seasonal Affective Disorder and are unsure of how to deal with it, follow the steps below. They could help you combat the symptoms of SAD.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Use a light box. One treatment for SAD is therapy that involves positioning yourself a short distance away from an apparatus called a light box. What a light box does is give off light that is much brighter than any ordinary light bulb. This bright light has proved to be helpful in improving the symptoms of SAD.

2. Try medication. Talk to your doctor about taking an antidepressant prescription to help alleviate the symptoms of SAD.

3. Consult with a mental health professional about psychotherapy or some other therapy that is effective in treating SAD.

4. Expose yourself to light (natural light and artificial light) as often as you can and avoid staying in dimly lit rooms while you are awake.

5. Avoid stress.

6. Exercise where there is bright light.

7. Maintain a healthy diet. A well-balanced diet may prevent you from overeating.

Tips & Warnings

• Caution should be taken when receiving light therapy, as some people have experienced side effects from this type of treatment.
• The symptoms of SAD vary with each person. Seek the advice of a doctor to determine which course of treatment is best for you.

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