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People with bouts of depression that accompany seasonal changes during the year may be suffering from a condition called Seasonal Affect Disorder or SAD. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, SAD usually begins in October or November and subsides in March or April. For some, the condition can begin during teen years or in adulthood. People who live in places with longer winter nights are at greater risk for the disorder. "Seasonal Affect Disorder is not due to obvious seasonalrelated stress," said Pathways Community Health's Dawn Scarborough, a licensed clinical social worker. "It is also more intense than the common 'winter blahs.'" Scarborough likens SAD symptoms to depressive episodes—depressed moods, loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed, weight loss or gain, sleeping irregularities, feeling fatigued or low energy, withdrawal and problems concentrating are all potential warning signs. SAD is treated much like other depressive disorders through talk therapy and, in more extreme cases, medication. "Light therapy has also seemed to show some very good effects," Scarborough said. "However, it is important to consult with a mental health professional or a primary care physician before using light therapy or medication due to some potential serious side effects. Professionals can quickly screen to see whether these treatments are beneficial to you." Scarborough also warns against taking SAD lightly. "People as a rule do not want to feel depressed or sad," she said. "If they had the ability to manage the symptoms effectively, they would more than likely do so. As with all depressive disorders, without treatment symptoms can worsen. It is very important to seek mental health or medical consultation if you suspect you or a loved one is experiencing depressive symptoms." Scarborough also stressed immediate help for anyone experiencing thoughts of Proceeds support COVERSA's services to victims of sexual assault. suicide. She said the prognosis is always best with appropriate treatment. SAD researchers are unclear about what causes this condition but suspect changes in daylight may affect hormonal balances in one's body that help regulate mood, sleep and appetite. However, what is known about SAD is that: Ÿ People with depression or who are bipolar may be more likely to experience a worsening symptom of SAD, but these individuals may not have episodes at other times of the year; Ÿ Changes in season may bring on an episode of SAD—life stressors may complicate symptoms Ÿ SAD affects women more often than men; and Ÿ Many people with SAD report at least one close relative with a psychiatric condition, most frequently a severe depressive disorder. As for people who are less likely to seek help, Scarborough makes a few recommendations. "Keep regular meal and sleep schedules," she advises. "Also, do not consume alcohol or drugs because they can intensely worsen symptoms. Research has also indicated that spending time outdoors and exercising may help with Seasonal Affect Disorder, as well as other depressive and anxiety disorders." Music provided by Disco Dick and the Mirror Balls