S.A.D Flashcards
Define SAD?
Unipolar and the depressive phase of bipolar SAD involves recurring depressive episodes that show a seasonal pattern, starting from September - November, ending in spring. Period of mania for bipolar SAD in the spring.
To meet DSM criteria, must have episodes of depression during the winter for two years, and have two remissions in the spring.
Symptoms include feeling miserable and depressed, disturbed sleep, lacking energy, feeling tired.
Who is most likely to get SAD?
2% of population have SAD, 10% have winter blues.
Women three times more likely to get it than men.
18-40 year olds most likely to suffer.
Biological explanation of SAD?
SAD is a circannual rhythm (biological process that occurs according to seasonal change, at intervals of one year) under control of the pineal gland. The gland secretes melatonin, influencing the production of serotonin. Production of melatonin high in dark (winter), low in light (summer) = drowsy and lethargic in the winter.
How is SAD in summer months explained?
Changes in magnetic fields such as geomagnetic storms decrease melatonin and serotonin production. For example, high suicide rates in parts of Alaska with northern lights.
Phototherapy for SAD?
Depressed individual sits 2-3 feet away from a light box for one to two hours daily. Wear a light visor, allowing light to shine on eyes.
Drug treatment for SAD?
Non sedative drugs like ssri combine well with phototherapy.
Sertraline boosts effectiveness of serotonin in the brain. tested on 200 patients from Britain, France, Canada and others. Found mood and anxiety improved.
SAD treatment AO2?
Phototherapy effective with 70% response rate. Reduction in depression achieved rapidly, 3-4 days.
Effect is only temporary, must be used continually throughout winter, costly and inconvenient.
Sertraline extremely effective, few side effects.
