If you feel depressed, moody, or lethargic only during certain times of the year, you may have seasonal affective disorder, or SAD. It's a condition that can trigger depression or bipolar disorder and occurs most often in the fall and winter when there's less sunlight. That's why it's sometimes called the winter blues. Even more rarely, it may also occur in summer.
The diagnosis of SAD can take a while because it is similar to other conditions such as chronic fatigue syndrome, hypothyroidism, hypoglycemia, viral illnesses, or different types of depression or bipolar disorder.
1. Diagnosis
The main feature of SAD is that mood and behavior change with the seasons. It is not a separate mood disorder, but a type of major depressive disorder or bipolar disorder, sometimes called manic depression.
have depression or mania that start and end in specific seasons;
These symptoms are not felt during a "normal" season;
Over a lifetime, more seasons with depression or mania are experienced than without depression or mania.
2. What can I do?
Treatment with SAD Therapy Lamp is important for all types of depression.
Beyond that, there are small changes you can make in your life to help reduce symptoms.
Get more sunlight: When the sun is shining, get outside. Open the blinds and sit by a sunny window.
Too much UV exposure may increase your chances of skin cancer, so talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of sun exposure.
Stay active: Exercise may help boost your mood and relieve stress and anxiety. Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity 3 times a week.
Go to a place with stronger sun: If you can, plan a trip to a sunny location. This can improve your mood and allow you to spend more time in the sun.
Proper Sleep Time: Sleep no more than 7-9 hours a night so you can spend more time awake.
Our SAD Therapy Lamp includes Rectangle SAD Therapy Lamp and Circle SAD Therapy Lamp, if you are interested in them, welcome to consult.