The Winter Blues
|
|
Are you suffering from winter blues? If so, you’re not alone.
Around 10% of Kiwis suffer from symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD), often known as ‘the winter blues.’ Symptoms include drowsiness, carbohydrate cravings, increased irritability and reduces energy. These symptoms vary form mild to severe.
Indeed a small percentage of sufferers are unable to function effectively at work or socially and often require medical treatment. Those of us who only experience small niggles with the onset of winter may comment “Just get over it- winter’s nothing new.” However, many people are unable to successfully manage the symptoms of SAD. Beginning work before sunrise, sitting in front of a computer all day and emerging from work at dusk makes it difficult to enjoy any winter sun that is around. |
 |
|
The good news is that 70% of sufferers significantly improve upon treatment with light therapy. Light therapy uses light boxes to administer a strong dosage of light (normally 2500 lux.) Most patients show significant improvement after one week of light therapy for 2 hours per day.
Other successful treatment includes increasing your intake of certain vitamins and herbs.
For further information on the causes, symptoms and treatment of SAD, visit www.seasonalaffectivedisorder.co.nz or www.kiwifamilies.co.nz
|
|
|