Sick of the snow yet? Bad news: There's more on the way. Much more.
While the flurries are fun for some, an estimated 14 percent of
Americans battle the winter blues. And almost half of those people (more
women than men) have full-on seasonal affective disorder or SAD – a
form of depression more common in the colder months.
Signs You Might Have Winter Depression
You're Grumpy |
Like depression, SAD can make you feel unhappy and irritable. The
symptoms subside in spring as the weather warms and the days get longer,
but that's no reason to suffer through the winter months.
Antidepressants, talk therapy and even exposure to light can help.
Signs You Might Have Winter Depression
You Feel Hopeless |
If you feel like winter's dragging on and there's nothing to look
forward to, you might suffer from SAD. Hopelessness is a symptom of
depression, but your doctor can tease out whether it's tied to the
season.
Signs You Might Have Winter Depression
You're Gaining Weight |
While some forms of depression cause a loss of appetite, people with SAD
tend to eat more – especially sweets and starchy foods. This, combined
with SAD-induced sluggishness, can lead to winter weight gain.
Signs You Might Have Winter Depression
You're Tired |
Some forms of depression make it harder to sleep, but people with SAD
tend to feel more tired and sleep longer than usual. The disorder can
also make it harder to concentrate.
Signs You Might Have Winter Depression
You're Withdrawn |
Like people with depression, SAD sufferers can lose interest in social
activities and become isolated. It's one thing to stay in because of bad
weather, but talk to a doctor if you think you're becoming withdrawn.
If you have SAD, there are treatments that might help you through the
remaining winter months.
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