By Valerie Mazziotti,
Physician Assistant

What is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)?

Seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, is a mood disorder characterized by depression related to a certain season of the year – especially winter. While the exact cause of SAD is still under investigation, it is widely believed that decreased exposure to sunlight is one of the main culprits, especially for the winter variety of the disorder.

Who is affected by Seasonal Affective Disorder?

According to the National Mental Health Disorders Association, approximately 10 to 20 percent of the population suffers from mild winter SAD, with 5 percent suffering from a more severe form of the disorder.  Anyone can experience SAD, but onset typically occurs in the early-to-mid-20s and is more likely to affect women than men.

How do I know if I’m experiencing Seasonal Affective Disorder, and what should I do?

If you feel depressed, fatigued and irritable the same time each year, and these feelings seem to be seasonal in nature, you may have a form of SAD. If you think you are experiencing a form of SAD, it is important to speak openly with your doctor about how you feel so that you and your healthcare provider can form an effective treatment plan.

How is Seasonal Affective Disorder treated?

If it is determined that you are experiencing SAD, your healthcare provider will work closely with you to develop a specific course of treatment based on your age, overall health and medical history, the extent to which you are experiencing SAD, your expectations, and your opinion or preference regarding certain treatments, medications or therapies.

The treatments for “winter depression” and “summer depression” often differ, but may include any, or a combination, of the following:

• Light therapy

• Antidepressant medications

• Psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy or interpersonal therapy

If you are concerned about Seasonal Affective Disorder this holiday season, our family practice providers are available by appointment throughout South King County to discuss the subject in more detail.

This column is for general information, and any specific questions or concerns regarding this topic should be brought to your physician.

Valerie Mazziotti, PA-C, studied Exercise Science at Seattle Pacific University and then received her medical education through the Physician Assistant program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She practices as a physician’s assistant at the Valley Medical Center Kent Clinic.