Seasonal Affective Disorder

• What appetite changes might occur with SAD?

  Weight gain or cravings for carbohydrates
• What are the key features that differentiate winter SAD from summer SAD?

  • Timing:
  • Winter: Fall/Winter
  • Summer: Spring/Summer
  • Mood:
  • Winter: Depressed/Sad
  • Summer: Irritable/Anxious
  • Symptoms:
  • Winter: Low energy, sleepiness
  • Summer: Restlessness, insomnia
  • Appetite:
  • Winter: Increased cravings
  • Summer: Decreased appetite
• What is another symptom of SAD besides low mood?

  Loss of interest in activities
• What are the two forms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)?

  Winter and summer SAD
• How does winter SAD affect daily activities?

  It negatively impacts mood and daily activities
• How does light affect the SCN in relation to SAD?

  Light from retina activates the SCN
• What does the pineal gland release in darkness?

  Melatonin
• When do symptoms of SAD commonly occur?

  During winter months with reduced daylight
• What is seasonal affective disorder (SAD)?

  A mood disorder causing sadness in winter
• What is the pathway of melatonin production related to SAD?

  1. Light activates the SCN
  2. SCN signals superior cervical ganglia
  3. Pineal gland releases melatonin in darkness
  4. Abnormal melatonin cycles lead to SAD
• How often do feelings of sadness occur in SAD?

  Most of the day, nearly every day
• How does CBT help individuals with SAD?

  It helps manage thoughts and behaviors related to SAD
• What lifestyle changes can improve symptoms of SAD?

  • Regular sleep schedule
  • Healthy diet
  • Regular exercise
• During which season does seasonal affective disorder (SAD) usually occur?

  Usually during winter
• How does summer SAD affect daily activities?

  It negatively impacts mood and daily activities
• Why are lifestyle changes important for managing SAD?

  They can significantly improve symptoms
• How does seasonal affective disorder (SAD) affect individuals?

  It makes it harder to enjoy normal activities
• What is a primary symptom of SAD?

  Low mood and feelings of sadness
• What cognitive symptom is associated with SAD?

  Difficulty concentrating
• What does SAD stand for?

  Seasonal Affective Disorder
• What causes seasonal affective disorder (SAD)?

  Changes in light exposure disrupting the body’s clock
• What is a common symptom of winter SAD?

  Low energy
• What physical symptom is commonly associated with SAD?

  Increased fatigue or sleepiness
• When do symptoms of SAD usually disappear?

  In spring or summer
• How does winter SAD affect mood compared to summer SAD?

  Winter SAD makes you feel down and sleepy
• How do symptoms of SAD affect daily life?

  They make it hard to focus on studies, work, or social life
• How do the symptoms of winter SAD differ from those of summer SAD?

  Winter SAD has low energy, while summer SAD has restlessness
• What feelings are associated with summer SAD?

  It can make you irritable and restless
• What emotional effect does seasonal affective disorder (SAD) have?

  It causes feelings of sadness or being down
• What is a common symptom of summer SAD?

  Restlessness
• What is the main cause of seasonal affective disorder (SAD)?

  Disruption in melatonin production pathway
• How does light therapy help manage SAD?

  It regulates the body clock and improves mood
• What causes SAD in terms of melatonin cycles?

  Abnormal melatonin cycles cause SAD
• What type of medication is commonly used for SAD?

  Antidepressants
• What symptoms are explained by the hormonal imbalance in SAD?

  Sleep disturbances, mood changes, and cravings
• What does the SCN signal to in the pathway of melatonin production?

  Superior cervical ganglia
• What is the effect of antidepressants on SAD?

  They elevate mood and reduce symptoms
• What are the main management options for SAD?

  1. Light Therapy
  2. Medication
  3. Psychotherapy
  4. Lifestyle Changes
• What type of therapy is effective for managing SAD?

  Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
• When do symptoms of SAD typically appear?

  In autumn or winter