The season of autumn is upon us, the transition from summer into winter is beginning to take place. Soon, the weather will begin to get chillier; the tree leaves will begin to change from green to red, orange, yellow or brown before falling. Halloween is also fast approaching, along with that comes the excitement of carving pumpkins, trick or treating, going on hayrides, and enjoying bonfires. Another change that will be taking place is that the days are becoming shorter; there will be less sunlight for us to enjoy. This can result in people experiencing a serious mood change when there is less natural sunlight during the winter months. This condition is called seasonal affective disorder, or SAD. Not everyone with SAD will have the same symptoms:
- Sad, anxious or "empty" feelings
- Feelings of hopelessness
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness or helplessness
- Irritability, restlessness
- Loss of interest or pleasure in activities you used to enjoy
- Fatigue and decreased energy
- Change in weight
- Thoughts of death or suicide
SAD can affect adults, teens and children. It's estimated that about 6 in every 100 people have experienced it. If you have been diagnosed with SAD, there are a few things you can do to help:
- Follow your doctor's recommendations for treatment
- Learn all you can about SAD and explain the condition to others so they can work with you
- Get plenty of exercise, especially outdoors. Exercise can be a mood lifter
- Be patient. Don't expect your symptoms to go away immediately
- Eat right
- Develop a sleep routine
If you feel that your depression is severe or you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, consult a doctor immediately or seek help at the nearest emergency room. The number to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 800-273-TALK. For adults, Missouri Baptist Sullivan Hospital's New Hope Center, an adult geriatric psych unit might be able to help. For younger individuals having drug withdraw depression issues, New Vision, a medical stabilization program is an option. For information about the New Hope Center, you may call 573-468-1605 or for the New Vision Program, you may call 573-468-1603.