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The shortening of daylight and increase of darkness effects people in different ways. Many people attribute the winter blues' to the end of an onslaught of holidays-Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, and New Year's Day. There are lights, and parties, festive music and decorations, most of which abruptly ends in January. Some may find themselves feeling increasingly depressed or let down the further we move into the winter season. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a very real problem, and it affects one in four people. It is believed that SAD is caused by a decrease in light, causing it to hit hardest throughout autumn and winter. Symptoms can include depression, anxiety, loss of energy, difficulty sleeping, social withdrawal, weight gain, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and a feeling of listlessness. What may appear to start as a mild case of the blues can become a serious condition, as it can have a profound effect on an individual's life, negatively impacting work, school, and social activities. People who already have a tendency towards depression may even experience suicidal feelings. The good news is that SAD is treatable. Talk therapy is one method of working through difficult feelings. Light therapy is another form of treatment that is easy to fit into a busy schedule, as people can continue working while the light shines on them. This form of therapy involves exposure to a special light for a certain amount of time each day. Treatment times vary depending on the strength of the light. A 2006 study revealed that light therapy is equally effective at treating SAD as Prozac. The study followed 96 adults with SAD over three winter seasons, and determined that not only were the two treatments equally effective, but also noted that improvements occurred more rapidly in the patients who were undergoing light therapy. Jewish Family Services offers therapy at affordable rates (sliding scale depending on income) and case assistance services. If you think you need assistance... they're here for you. Call Jewish Family Services confidential direct line at (828) 253-2900. (Image provided by Jewish Family Services.)
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