WATCH OUT FOR THE SADS!

Seasonal Affective Disorder

and You Submitted by

Brian WhiteSouthern New

Hampshire University

SYMPTOMS OF SADS

Most susceptible from November to March or April

Symptoms can be mild or severe

Sleep issues:OversleepingSleeping pattern interrupted (going to bed later than normal, sleepy all day, can’t sleep at night)

SYMPTOMS OF SADS

Weight gainFeeling depressed with no apparent

reasonFeeling sluggish, no motivationWanting to just lay around all dayPoor concentrationFeeling disorganized and

overwhelmed

NON-MEDICAL WAYS TO FIGHT SADS

Light therapy Person must sit in front of a light box (2,500-10,000 Lux) for at least 30 minutes three times a week.

Using the light box sporadically will not be effective.

MORE WAYS TO FIGHT SADS

Foods:Tryptophan: Increasing your intake of tryptophan will help regulate sleep (cashew nuts, turkey, apples, basmati rice, grapes, apricots and oranges)

Stay away from fatty and sugary foods especially before bed

Protein

MORE WAYS TO FIGHT SADS

Vitamins:MultivitaminsOmega 3Vitamin B6

MORE WAYS TO FIGHT SADS

Get outside!Even though it’s cold the sun is still out…enough…where you can get the sun exposure that you need.

Aerobic activity also releases much need endorphins and other chemicals that help regulate your body.

Fresh oxygen can make a difference. Open a window every once in a while.