Is SAD Worse Than Other Forms Of Depression?
Many doctors believe that there is a genetic predisposition to depression. SAD is a form of depression that links people’s moods to the seasons, and as many as 18 million Americans suffer from SAD.
The good news about SAD sufferers is that there is help. There are many non-drug therapies that are very effective at relieving symptoms. It is also good that if someone suffers from SAD, they can begin to understand when a bout of depression is coming on and seek help before symptoms become debilitating. If you typically get depressed in the winter, you can begin light therapy before you even suffer one day of depression if you are aware of your cycle.
Light therapy is a very effective and easy treatment. Your doctor will help develop a plan for you to increase doses according to your seasonal needs, allowing you to manage your depression without the use of drugs. If you are newly diagnosed with SAD and not yet aware of your cycle, your doctor can help you by asking questions and helping you pay attention to your body’s needs.
Other non-drug ways of defeating SAD include eating a healthy diet, sticking to a regular exercise program, and getting a good nights rest. It is important to know that treating depression early makes treatments more effective, and the same is true for SAD. If your symptoms last more than 2 weeks, seek help right away.
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