Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) affects about 5% of us
severely and perhaps 25% of us more mildly. Women and young
adults are more likely to suffer from it.
It's a form of depression that, according to the National Mental
Health Association (NMHA), is a real illness with sometimes
severe symptoms. It's worse in January and February, though
starts as early as September.
SAD is believed to be caused by melatonin, a sleep-related
hormone secreted by the pineal gland in the brain. Melatonin
production increases in the dark, so in the winter, when the
days are shorter and darker, production increases, causing
symptoms of depression.
SAD is extremely rare for people living within 30 degrees of the
Equator, where daylight hours are long and extremely bright.
THE SYMPTOMS?
Sleep problems, lethargy, overeating, depression, social
problems, anxiety, loss of libido, mood changes, and a weakened
immune system. For complete description, go here:
http://www.sada.org.uk/symptoms.htm .
THE CURE?
Light suppresses the secretion of melatonin, so for lighter
cases, get outside more, exercise outside, and arrange for more
light at work and at home.
Developing your emotional intelligence can help you become more
aware of the effects, and achieve a better emotional lifestyle
overall. Negative emotions, and SAD can impact the immune
system, which is our health, and our only line of defense
against viruses. So be proactive - - study EQ, and get on a good
neutraceutical now. Arbonne's DefenseBuilder and Get Well Soon
Dietary Supplement,(
http://susandunn.myarbonne.com )are
scientifically proven to nutritionally support the immune
system. Watch the cosmetics and lotions you use as well, so you
don't assault yourself further with toxic chemicals. What you
put on your skin is absorbed into the bloodstream.
You may also want to consider phototherapy in more severe cases.
A light box can be used that emits very bright light through a
filter.
Please check with your personal physician if you think you have
SAD.
About the author:
Susan Dunn, MA, The EQ Coach,
http://www.susandunn.cc,
mailto:sdunn@susandunn.cc . Individual coaching, Internet
courses, ebooks, EQ Alive! coach certification program, rated
#1, training worldwide. For nutriceuticals, skin care, baby
products, cosmetics, anti-aging, acne, go to
http://susandunn.myarbonne.com . Email for FR** EQ ezine
