WATCH OUT FOR THE SADS Seasonal Affective Disorder

WATCH OUT FOR THE SADS! Seasonal Affective Disorder and You Submitted by Brian White Southern New Hampshire University

SYMPTOMS OF SADS Most susceptible from November to March or April Symptoms can be mild or severe Sleep issues: Oversleeping Sleeping pattern interrupted (going to bed later than normal, sleepy all day, can’t sleep at night)

SYMPTOMS OF SADS Weight gain Feeling depressed with no apparent reason Feeling sluggish, no motivation Wanting to just lay around all day Poor concentration Feeling 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: Multivitamins Omega 3 Vitamin B 6

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.