Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) – Let our experts shine a light on some remedies and solutions
November 4, 20192 min readIt’s that time of year again. The days are shorter, colder and gloomier - and as the seasons change, many across America are impacted.
“Seasonal affective disorder is estimated to affect 10 million Americans. Another 10 percent to 20 percent may have mild SAD. SAD is four times more common in women than in men. The age of onset is estimated to be between the age of 18 and 30. Some people experience symptoms severe enough to affect quality of life, and 6 percent require hospitalization. Many people with SAD report at least one close relative with a psychiatric disorder, most frequently a severe depressive disorder (55 percent) or alcohol abuse (34 percent).” Psychology Today
The numbers are a lot larger than many assume and it’s why the experts from Michigan State University are offering up their solutions to beat back the symptoms this year.
“If you think you might be at risk of SAD (or lack of energy and reduced motivation in the winter) therapeutic light treatment will most likely benefit you and prevent or reverse SAD,” said Dr. Hanne M. Hoffman, an assistant professor of Neuroscience at Michigan State University.
They symptoms of SAD are serious:
- Feelings of hopelessness and sadness
- Thoughts of suicide
- Hypersomnia or a tendency to oversleep
- A change in appetite, especially a craving for sweet or starchy foods
- Weight gain
- A heavy feeling in the arms or legs
- A drop in energy level
- Decreased physical activity
- Fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability
- Increased sensitivity to social rejection
- Avoidance of social situations
If you are suffering – seeing a medical professional is advised.
If you are a journalist covering SAD – the let our experts help.
Dr. Hoffmann’s research program is focused on how light changes your well being, motivation, fertility and pregnancy success. She is available to speak with media – simply click on her icon to arrange an interview today.
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Hanne M. Hoffmann Assistant Professor of Animal Science; Expert in Neuroendocrinology
Dr. Hoffmann’s research program is focused on how light changes your well being, motivation, fertility and pregnancy success.