'Tis the Season for Seasonal Affective Disorder

The cold, grey days of winter can be a letdown after the beautiful, brisk days of fall and the hustle and bustle of the holidays. Winter blues that become a reoccurring depression each year can be a more serious illness called Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

According to Hamilton Healthcare System’s Greg Blaisdell, MD, about six percent of the population is affected by SAD. It usually affects more women than men. Symptoms include sadness, depression, low energy, weight gain, increased sleep and a general feeling of lethargy. SAD sufferers often begin to feel these symptoms in December and they can last as late as February or March.

Blaisdell notes that while SAD is more prevalent in northern climates it can even affect Texans where winter days can be milder.

“Some people can really get to feeling bad,” said Dr. Blaisdell, “and they may not connect this depression to the winter months.”

SAD sufferers can find relief through antidepressant medications or light therapy.

“Sometimes exposing patients to a special light box for 30 minutes to one hour a day beginning in November can alleviate symptoms before they start,” said Dr. Blaisdell, who notes that this works only with a specially designed light box, not ordinary house lights or even tanning beds.

He also says that even though symptoms may be caught and alleviated early on, patients should continue in their therapies to avoid relapses.

Blaisdell recommends that anyone showing SAD symptoms contact their physician and go through an evaluation and proper diagnosis.

“SAD is not something you have to suffer through,” said Blaisdell. “We can help.”

Greg Blaisdell, MD is a board certified psychiatrist on the courtesy staff of Hamilton Healthcare System. Dr. Blaisdell treats patients regularly at the Special Care Clinic in Hamilton. For more information or an appointment, please call (254) 386-1800.