S.A.D – Seasonal Affective Disorder

I am temporarily back from hiatus. Its been awhile since I’ve actually blogged something thats not related to class. 

S.A.D

This weekend was disgusting. Hail, snow, and rain. I think a lot of people around me, including myself still suffers from SAD, the winter blues…either that, or we’re all just super emo.

No one knows for sure what causes SAD but researchers believe it may have to do with;
-Fewer daylight hours may reduce important mood altering chemicals in the brain;
-Hormonal disruption (cortisol, thyroid)
-Reduced retinal sensitivity to light,
-Low winter temperatures may trigger the body to rest and disrupt circadian rhythms;
-Barometric pressure and precipitant levels,
-Psychological mechanisms and personality traits may all be contributing factors.Here are the symptoms. i have everyone of them:
-Low mood, reduced interest in normally pleasurable activities, decreased concentration (I seriously don’t feel like doing anything but be a couch potato.)
-Oversleeping-often an increase of 4 hours or more each day.(I have a habit of taking “naps” for 6 hours.)
-Low energy and fatigue

-Intense craving for carbohydrates

-Weight gain and carbohydrate/sweets craving(Yes, definitely gained weight. )
-Withdrawal from social contacts

-Depression.Some treatments include light therapy or anti-depressants.

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