SAD or Seasonal affective disorder is a type of depression that mostly occurs in the winter months. This is why this disorder is also known as “Winter Depression”. The symptoms of disease, however, are often relieved in the spring or summer season.
The exact cause of seasonal effective disorder is not known. According to many scientists, the disease can occur due to the lower temperatures and reduction in natural light during the winter season. A brain chemical known as melatonin may be influenced by the less exposure to light, which in turn often leads to SAD. However, it is inconclusive and a lot of research is still needed in this regard.
The typical symptoms of winter depression include irritability, fatigue, tiredness, lack of interest, lack of concentration, mood swings especially in the evening, lack of energy, overeating and weight gain, daytime sleepiness and increased sleep, and muscle pain.
SAD can effectively be treated with the help of antidepressant medication, psychological therapy and bright light therapy. The latter mode of treatment makes use of a special light box or lamp that provides an excellent source of light to a sufferer. Bright light therapy is quite effective in reducing the depressive symptoms. However, once the treatment is stopped, the symptoms may return quite quickly.
People with seasonal effective disorder are also advised to consume diets that are rich in vitamin B. B vitamins especially vitamin B1, B6 and B12 help relive symptoms and absorb energy from foods.
It also makes a good idea to use a dietary supplement that contains B vitamins in its formulation. Higher Nature Super Nutrition Multivitamins is an A-Z multivitamin and mineral formula that includes vitamin B-complex and trace minerals such as manganese and molybdenum. Not only does it help relieve the symptoms of SAD, but it also makes an ideal choice for compromised digestion and absorption.
