Symptoms:
Diagnosis:
Who Is Affected?
Causes:
Treatment Options:
Prevention:
Further Information:
Winter is upon us, and though many are at risk for catching a cold and eating too many holiday cookies, all of us in Pennsylvan ia are at risk for Seasonal Affective Disorder( SAD).
SAD is a type of depression that occurs in seasonal patterns, typically affecting mood, behavior, and thought processes in relation to changes in daylight.
Following is a summary of information from the National Institute of Mental Health:
Symptoms:
Symptoms of SAD mirror those of major depression and can vary based on the season:
• Winter-pattern SAD: Oversleeping, overeating( especially carbs), social withdrawal.
• Summer-pattern SAD: Insomnia, poor appetite, restlessness, anxiety.
Common depressive symptoms include persistent sadness, hopelessness, irritability, fatigue, concentration difficulties, and changes in sleep and appetite.
Diagnosis:
To be diagnosed with SAD, symptoms must occur seasonally for at least two consecutive years and be more frequent during specific seasons than at other times.
Who Is Affected?
SAD affects millions, more commonly beginning in young adulthood, with a higher prevalence in women and individuals living in northern regions. It often coexists with other mental health disorders.
Causes:
The exact causes of SAD are still being researched, but factors include reduced serotonin levels and altered melatonin production due to changing daylight. Vitamin D deficiency is also considered a contributing factor.
Treatment Options:
1. Light Therapy: Involves exposure to a bright light box to compensate for lack of sunlight.
2. Psychotherapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy( CBT) tailored for SAD helps modify negative thoughts and behaviors.
3. Antidepressant Medications: SSRIs are commonly prescribed to alleviate symptoms.
4. Vitamin D Supplements: May help improve symptoms, particularly in those deficient in vitamin D.
Prevention:
Individuals with a history of SAD may benefit from starting treatment before the expected onset of symptoms.
Further Information:
For support or to find treatment options, individuals can consult the National Institute of Mental Health or other mental health resources.
Here is a link to more information: https:// www. nimh. nih. gov / health / publications / seasonal-affective-disorder
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2025 | PENNSYLVANIA DENTAL JOURNAL 35