(WBBM NEWSRADIO) - After the cloudiest January on record, the last few sunny days have been a major relief, especially for people suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD.
About 5% of adults struggle with it, and it’s more common among women.
Licensed clinical counselor and president of the Illinois chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Beth Morrison said SAD follows a pattern of less sunlight.
“The changes in the temperature, the weather, anything that impacts your sleep patterns or your regular daily schedule can trigger Seasonal Affective Disorder,” Morrison said.
She said research shows people experience it starting in the fall and it gets worse in January and February.
Morrison said a diagnosis might come after a pattern of depression between the fall and spring over two years.
Those with the form of depression may sleep too much, crave carbs and feel like hibernating instead of doing things you enjoy.
She suggested you talk to your doctor first and, if you do have SAD, try to get outside more in the sunshine or invest in a light box and take vitamin D.
“If you’re working from home, maybe have your office face a window, make sure that you are trying to practice good sleep hygiene and have a regular sleep routine, and stay connected with others,” Morrison advised.
Listen to WBBM Newsradio now on Audacy!
Sign up and follow WBBM Newsradio
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
Related
