Seasonal affective disorder, commonly referred to as SAD, is a form of clinical depression that is believed to affect around one in fifty people living in the UK.
The condition is often related to location and research has revealed that SAD is most common at high latitudes within both the northern and southern hemisphere, yet it's virtually unheard of in those living within 30 degrees of the equator. This is why light therapy is a common form of SAD treatment, as those living further from the Earth's equator are higher risk of developing the condition due to a lack of sunlight exposure.
What are the Main Symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder?
Sufferers of SAD who live in the northern hemisphere typically begin exhibiting symptoms around September to November and the symptoms often persist until March or April. On the other hand, individuals living in the southern hemisphere will usually begin experiencing symptoms around April or May and the condition often persists until September or November.
The main symptoms associated with SAD are identified as being more physical than psychological and include the following: seasonal depression, increased desire to sleep, feeling extremely fatigued and an increase in appetite.
The seasonal depression that is experienced by SAD sufferers will usually result in feelings of guilt, misery, despair, anxiety and in some cases thoughts of suicide. Changes in sleep patterns often involve difficulty getting up in the morning and a drowsy feeling that persists throughout the day. Feelings of fatigue can result in the sufferer losing the ability to function normally as a result of limited energy and reduced motivation.
Appetite changes are also common in SAD sufferers. Affected individuals will often report an increase in appetite (often resulting in weight gain) during the winter months. Cravings often center around certain food groups such as simple carbohydrates.
Recognising Symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder in Children and Adolescents
SAD also affects children and adolescents. In children, problems that occur during the winter or autumn months usually disappear during the spring and summer months. Symptoms that are common among younger sufferers of SAD may include a decrease in school performance, depression, disinterest in socialising, anxiety, sleep problems, unusual cravings (often, for sugary foods), frequent aches and pains, irritability and crying.
Behavioural difficulties are a very common symptom in children with SAD, although in contrast to adult sufferers of SAD, children are more likely to exhibit symptoms of fatigue and anxiety and they're less likely to exhibit signs of depression.
Despite the fact that SAD is as prevalent in children as other childhood disorders such as attention deficit disorder (ADD), the condition often goes undiagnosed. The symptoms are mistaken for signs of learning difficulties or even laziness. It is important to recognise that many adults with SAD first experienced the condition in childhood or adolescence.
As highlighted above, seasonal affective disorder affects children, adolescents and adults. Individuals who are prone to this condition should watch out for changes in appetite, sleep, depression and energy levels, as these symptoms often signal the start of a bout of SAD.
Sources:
Marshall, F. & Cheevers, P. (2002) Coping with SAD London: Sheldon Press.
Plant, J. & Stephenson, J. (2008) Beating Stress, Anxiety and Depression London: Piatkus Books.
Kate Le Page - Kate Henning-Le Page writes about eating disorders, body image and recovery issues. She specializes in anorexia recovery.
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