Seasonal Affective Disorder For Dummies

by Laura L. Smith, Charles H. Elliott

Examines the pros and cons of light therapy

An accessible approach to stopping SAD thoughts and looking at the brighter side of life

Do you suffer from wintertime woes? You may have seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a serious but treatable condition. This friendly guide helps you identify symptoms, talk to your doctor, and get an accurate diagnosis. You get the latest on the various drug and non-drug treatment options as well as tips for dismantling SAD thinking and feeling better through lifestyle changes.


* Stop SAD before it starts
*

Monitor your triggers and symptoms
*

Assess alternative therapies
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Reduce your stress and anxiety
*

Survive a SAD relapse

Genres: Nonfiction, Health

333 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2007

Reviews

[Ged · Rating 4 out of 5]

An informative read, though mostly aimed at US readers. SAD and its causes are discussed, along with an extensive range of treatment options, including sleeping patterns/behaviours, diet, exercise, therapies and medications. Much of the book discusses Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) techniques so if you are already familiar with CBT from other reading then you may know a lot of what is mentioned here.

[AJ Foiret · Rating 4 out of 5]

I learnt a lot about the condition and found it very helpful.

[Arifah · Rating 3 out of 5]

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that comes and goes as seasons change, most form arrives in fall and winter. The number of cases increases in population farther from the equator.

Mood and symptoms associated with SAD can be so dark that the person start missing work, withdraws from people, deep sadness, fatigue, excessive sleep, feeling of regret, lost of energy and motivation, sense of worthlessness, weight gains, or might contemplates suicide.

The symptoms are more intense during colder, darker months, and not getting enough sunlight.

There are options for those who suffer from SAD, such as: cognitive behaviour therapy, light therapy (exposure to intensely bright lights), diet, birkam yoga, medication, hormones, and supplements.
(Smith&Elliott, 2007)

[Laurie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book can help people with even a touch of the winter blues. I read a little every night and found it worthwhile.