A Lively Source of Real Estate & Community News
December 2001
The Winter Blues: Nothing To Be SAD About
W
inter arrives December 21st, and with it comes the least amount of sunlight we receive annually. Myself, I’m a sunlight kind of guy. That’s why I live in Wasaga BEACH. However, as the days get shorter, many people experience a form of depression called Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD—an extreme case of the "winter blues" that is relieved during the spring and summer months. Although SAD isn't totally understood, it is a real illness with sometimes severe symptoms. As seasons change, there is a shift in our "biological internal clocks" or circadian rhythms, partly in response to the changes in sunlight patterns. This can cause our biological clocks to fall out of step with our daily schedules. SAD sufferers have a tough time adjusting to the shortage of sunlight in the winter months, especially in January and February. Part of the problem has been the homes we live in. Builders were under great pressure some years back to construct airtight homes with an eye toward saving energy. With this came a loss of window space—the conventional wisdom was fewer windows equaled less heat loss. But today, with window technology evolving rapidly, it is possible to be energy efficient even while bathing in daylight inside your home. What Are the Symptoms of SAD? Symptoms of depression occur regularly during the fall or winter months (changes in sleeping and eating habits; persistent sad, anxious or "empty" mood; loss of pleasure in activities once enjoyed) and subside in the spring and summer months. Symptoms have occurred in the past two years. Seasonal episodes substantially outnumber nonseasonal depression episodes. Cravings for sugary or starchy foods (mmm...Snickers).
Who Gets SAD? An estimated 25 percent of the population suffers from mild winter SAD and about five percent suffer from a more severe form of the disorder. Young people and women are at the highest risk for the disorder, but it can affect anyone. What Causes SAD? As the days get shorter and darker, the brain produces more Melatonin, a sleep-related hormone that can cause symptoms of depression and has been linked to SAD. So when the days are shorter and darker, the production of this hormone increases.
Did you know? Christmas was once a moveable feast celebrated at many different times during the year. The choice of December 25 was made by Pope Julius I in the 4th century A.D. because it coincided with the pagan rituals of Winter Solstice, or Return of the Sun.
Is Treatment Available? Yes—move immediately to Mexico (just kidding). People don't need to wait for the spring months to overcome SAD. For mild symptoms, arranging homes and workplaces to receive more sunlight may be helpful. And if you build a home, put in plenty of windows. Also, regular exercise— From Our House particularly if done outdoors—can relieve to Yours: depression. One study found that an hour's walk in My sincerest wish to all of winter sunlight was as effective as two and a half you is that this holiday hours under bright artificial light. season finds you in good For more severe symptoms, a light health, surrounded by treatment called phototherapy might those you love. May help. Phototherapy suppresses the brain's secretion of melatonin. peace, happiness and lots Although research hasn't proven that of chocolate be yours in this treatment has an antidepressant the New Year ahead! effect, it has helped many people. –Bruce The device most often used today is a light box that emits very bright light Compiled for happy clients by: through a filter. SAD patients sit in front of the Bruce Johnson light box for a few minutes everyday while they Sales Representative work or do other activities. Mary Johnson If phototherapy doesn't work, an antidepressant Assistant drug may help reduce or eliminate SAD symptoms, RE/MAX of Wasaga Beach Inc. but there may be unwanted side effects to consider. 1263 Mosley St., Box 490 In all cases, people who think they may have Wasaga Beach, ON L0L 2P0 SAD should discuss their symptoms with a doctor email: brucejohnson@remax.net or mental health professional. But if you do choose www.thehomehunt.com to move to Mexico, leave us a forwarding Tel: 705-429-4500 Fax: 705-429-4019 address—we may be coming for a visit.
~Bruce