Are you affected by seasonal affective disorder (SAD)?

Sadness - A woman with seasonal depression
United States
February 10, 2007 8:07am CST
It is thought that seasonal depression (sometimes called seasonal affective disorder, or SAD - the perfect acronym) is caused by lack of sunlight during the fall and winter months. I have experienced this year after year, and let me tell you, it's no fun at all. I'm doing much better this winter, but I still feel some of the effects of SAD. For instance, I feel zapped of energy most of the time, feeing the need to sleep a lot, I tend to eat more and gain weight, I isolate myself to the point of being a hermit,extremely unmotivated to go outdoors. However, the actual depression isn't quite so bad this year, so it's a little easier to deal with. Discuss how SAD has affected you. How do you cope with it? Can you suggest some tips that could help others with this condition? I'm very interested in reading your responses to this, as it may help me to get through the winter without going insane!
1 person likes this
2 responses
@cultoffury (1283)
• India
10 Feb 07
From the description you have given me, I don't think this is any special disorder, in our part of the world we call this "laziness" and I am also a strong competitor for the top spot. I have nothing seasonal about it. Whenever possible I do these things that you have mentioned.
@freesoul (3021)
• Egypt
11 Feb 07
Yes I have this problem and i read a lot about it, some people use artificial light during the day that it so bright to compensate of the gloomy days, for me what gets me out of it (or at least don't let me fall completely to it) is people how some how depend on me or problems that force me to go to places and deal with more people, etc.. when I'm under pressure to do things I have to get out of the shell and engage with life..