MedWorm: Seasonal Affective Disorder

Seasonal Affective Disorder: Teenagers more likely to be grumpy with winter blues if they were born in spring

the Mail online | Health — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 12:51:35 +0100

Teenagers born in the spring or summer are more likely to suffer the 'winter blues' than those born in the colder months of autumn or winter, according to University of Bologna researchers. (Source: the Mail online | Health)

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Winter Doldrums Got You Down? Here’s How to Bounce Back

The Doctors Lounge - Psychiatry — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Adding lights, exercise can help people battling seasonal affective disorder, doctor says (Source: The Doctors Lounge - Psychiatry)

Study tests new treatments for the winter blues

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Brigham and Women's Hospital) If winter's long nights and cold weather have you feeling depressed, a new research study could lift your spirits. The study aims to help adult (ages 21-64) men and women with seasonal affective disorder by comparing two new types of light technologies to determine which one works better. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

On the application of light therapy in German-speaking countries. - Fischer R, Kasper S, Pjrek E, Winkler D.

SafetyLit: All (Unduplicated) — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 23:37:58 +0100

Many studies have investigated seasonal affective disorder (SAD; fall-winter-depression) and its treatment with light therapy (LT). However, to the best of our knowledge, no other study has investigated the usage of LT in Europe since 1994. Thus, we perfor... (Source: SafetyLit: All (Unduplicated))

New Technology Helps Beat the Winter Blues

BWH News — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +0100

Brigham and Women’s Hospital researcher tests new treatments for Seasonal Affective Disorder (Source: BWH News)

On the application of light therapy in German-speaking countries

European Archives of Psychiatry and Clinical Neuroscience — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 16:47:34 +0100

Abstract Many studies have investigated seasonal affective disorder (SAD; fall-winter-depression) and its treatment with light therapy (LT). However, to the best of our knowledge, no other study has investigated the usage of LT in Europe since 1994. Thus, we performed a survey in hospitals with adult psychiatric departments in German-speaking countries by questionnaire. First, a questionnaire was constructed, considering also recent developments in LT. This questionnaire was sent to all hospitals with adult psychiatric departments listed in the “Deutsches Krankenhaus Adressbuch,” which contains hospitals from all German-speaking countries (Germany, Switzerland, and Austria). Non-responders were asked to answer the questionnaire by mail and by phone. We achieved a compl...

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Low Vitamin D Levels Tied to Psychotic Symptoms in Teens

Clinical Endocrinology News — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

TORONTO – Low vitamin D levels were linked with more psychotic features in mentally ill adolescents, in a small study. Studies have linked vitamin D deficiency with seasonal affective disorder, schizophrenia, and depression, Dr. Barbara L. Gracious of Ohio State University, Columbus, said at the meeting. She and her colleagues studied 104 consecutive teens seen for acute or partial hospital stays for psychiatric symptoms over an 18-month period. Patients' average age was 15, 27% were male, and 73% were white. Overall, 72% had low vitamin D levels (25-OHD levels less than 30 ng/mL), and 34% were vitamin D deficient (25-OHD levels less than 20 ng/mL). By comparison, 9% of a cohort of teens from the NHANES (National Health and Nutrition Survey) were vitamin D deficient, the researchers not...

Second-generation antidepressants for seasonal affective disorder

NeLM - Mental Health — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Source: Cochrane Library Area: Evidence > Drug Class Focused Reviews Background Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a seasonal pattern of recurrent depressive episodes that is often treated with second-generation antidepressants (SGAs), light therapy or psychotherapy. Objectives To assess the efficacy and safety of SGAs for the treatment of SAD in adults in comparison with placebo, light therapy, other SGAs or psychotherapy. Search methods We searched the Cochrane Depression, Anxiety and Neuorosis Review Group's specialised register (CCDANCTR) on the 26 August 2011. The CCDANCTR contains reports of relevant randomised controlled trials from The Cochrane Library (all years), EMBASE (1974 to date), MEDLINE (1950 to date) and PsycINFO (1967...

Eat mushrooms to improve your health and happiness this winter

NaturalNews.com — Sat, 24 Dec 2011 06:00:00 +0100

(NaturalNews)For many people, the cold and often dreary days of winter can translate into seasonal affective disorder (SAD), also known as the "winter blues." But one way to help you and your family to avoid the winter blues and stay healthy and happy this winter is to eat plenty... (Source: NaturalNews.com)

Seasonal Affective Disorder and the Holiday Blues: Which Do you have and tips to avoid the Holiday Blues?

Psychology Today Depression Center — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 18:23:31 +0100

For many of us, the holidays are a joyful time. But for some people, the expected happiness does not arrive. Lonely people - without family or friends - and those who grew up in dysfunctional families and have unpleasant memories of the holidays, simply can't achieve the ideal that many commercial images of the holidays portray. Primary Topic: Depression read more (Source: Psychology Today Depression Center)

Second-generation antidepressants for seasonal affective disorder.

Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 01:00:04 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: Evidence for the effectiveness of SGAs is limited to one small trial of fluoxetine compared with placebo, which shows a non-significant effect in favour of fluoxetine, and two small trials comparing fluoxetine against light therapy, which suggest equivalence between the two interventions. The lack of available evidence precludes the ability to draw any overall conclusions on the use of SGAs for SAD. Further larger RCTs are required to expand and strengthen the evidence base on this topic, and should also include comparisons with psychotherapy and other SGAs.Data on adverse events were sparse, and a comparative analysis was not possible. Therefore the data we obtained on adverse effects is not robust and our confidence in the data is limited. Overall, up to 27% of participants ...

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Winter got you feelin' blue?

USATODAY.com Health — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 19:13:02 +0100

Seasonal affective disorder is a type of depression most often linked to winter. About 5% of Americans suffer from it. (Source: USATODAY.com Health)

Are You SAD This Winter? Coping with Seasonal Affective Disorder

Psych Central — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 22:35:54 +0100

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) goes beyond the winter blues. It goes beyond feeling tired or sad or disliking winter. SAD is a form of clinical depression that occurs in the winter, according to Kelly Rohan, Ph.D, associate professor of psychology at the University of Vermont, whose research focuses on SAD. It starts around fall or winter, as the days get shorter and darker, and typically remits in the spring or summer. SAD affects around 14 million Americans, according to author and SAD specialist Norman E. Rosenthal, M.D., in his book Winter Blues: Everything You Need to Know to Beat Seasonal Affective Disorder. (About 14 percent of American adults struggle with the winter blues.) People with SAD experience a variety of physical, emotional and cognitive symptoms that impairs their da...

Feeling Blue? Mayo Clinic Doctor Available to Discuss Seasonal Affective Disorder

Mayo Clinic Health Information — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 20:59:12 +0100

Some people may experience symptoms of seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, a type of depression that typically occurs during the winter months. (Source: Mayo Clinic Health Information)

Negative ion treatment increases positive emotional processing in seasonal affective disorder.

Psychological Medicine — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: These results are consistent with the hypothesis that early change in emotional processing may be an important mechanism for treatment action in depression and suggest that these effects are also apparent with negative ion treatment in seasonal depression. PMID: 22152099 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Psychological Medicine)

The effects of blue-enriched light treatment compared to standard light treatment in seasonal affective disorder

Journal of Affective Disorders — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 14:23:58 +0100

Conclusion: The lack of superiority of high intensity blue-enriched light over standard bright light treatment does not clearly support nor rule out the possibility of an important role for the circadian system or the blue sensitive non-visual image forming system in general, in the pathophysiology of SAD. The lack of a difference between conditions may also be the result of a saturated response to the high light intensities used. Recent data indeed suggest that low intensity blue-enriched light may be as effective as standard bright light treatment. The possibility of improving light therapy for SAD patients by applying light of shorter duration or at lower light intensities is highly relevant for optimizing treatment and will help to clarify the role of the circadian system and/or the no...

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Genome-wide study links MTMR7 gene to variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob risk.

Neurobiology of Aging — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Sanchez-Juan P, Bishop MT, Aulchenko YS, Brandel JP, Rivadeneira F, Struchalin M, Lambert JC, Amouyel P, Combarros O, Sainz J, Carracedo A, Uitterlinden AG, Hofman A, Zerr I, Kretzschmar HA, Laplanche JL, Knight RS, Will RG, van Duijn CM Abstract The aim of our study was to discover genomic variations related to variant Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (vCJD) susceptibility. A genome-wide association analysis with most vCJD samples available in the world was performed. A series of 93 vCJD UK patients and 1504 UK controls were included in the discovery stage. Our best findings were replicated in an independent population of 22 UK and 20 French vCJD cases. Post hoc analysis to assess our main results included 5711 French controls, 445 Dutch controls, and 446 sporadic Creutzfeldt-Ja...

VIDEO: London artwork that fights SAD

BBC News | Health | UK Edition — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 06:28:09 +0100

A new light sculpture has just opened to the public in London, which aims to fight Seasonal Affective Disorder - commonly known as the winter blues. (Source: BBC News | Health | UK Edition)

The Consumer: Light Boxes May Help Melt Those Winter Blues

NYT — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 18:50:07 +0100

Bright-light therapy is the treatment of choice for many Americans who suffer the winter blues, but many experts say it is underused. (Source: NYT)

Shorter days bring gloom to those with S.A.D.

USATODAY.com Health — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 14:43:59 +0100

A long winter is more than just a nuisance for millions of Americans suffering from seasonal affective disorder. (Source: USATODAY.com Health)

The Consumer: Light Boxes May Help Melt Those Winter Blues

NYT Health — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 04:57:21 +0100

Bright-light therapy is the treatment of choice for many Americans who suffer the winter blues, but many experts say it is underused. (Source: NYT Health)

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Well Blog: Light Therapy for Dark Days

NYT Health — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 22:40:36 +0100

For the millions of Americans who suffer from mild to severe winter blues, bright-light therapy is the treatment of choice, with response rates comparable with those of antidepressants (Source: NYT Health)

Cure Winter Blues With Light Therapy

NPR Health and Science — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 18:00:00 +0100

Or The Beach — Seasonal depression, or seasonal affective disorder, affects some five percent of Americans in the winter as daily sunlight hours dwindle. Psychiatrist Richard A. Friedman discusses the evolutionary origins of the winter blues, and treatments ranging from light therapy to a trip to the beach.» E-Mail This » Add to Del.icio.us (Source: NPR Health and Science)

Seasonal Affective Disorder: Shining a light in your ear 'can brighten your winter mood'

the Mail online | Health — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 13:31:33 +0100

Up to one in four Britons suffer from seasonal affective disorder but channeling a bright light into the ear canal for just eight minutes a day could help prevent the condition. (Source: the Mail online | Health)

Evolutionary origin of bipolar disorder-revised: EOBD-R

Medical Hypotheses — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Abstract: The hypothesis of the evolutionary origin of bipolar disorder (EOBD) synthesized ideas about the biological clock and seasonal shifts in mood (Rosenthal, Wehr) with theorizing that bipolar disorder descends from a pyknic (compact, cold-adapted) group (Kretchmer). The hypothesis suggested that bipolar behaviors evolved in the northern temperate zone as highly derived adaptations to the selective pressures of severe climatic conditions during the Pleistocene. Given evidence of Neandertal contributions to the human genome, the hypothesis is extended (EOBD-R) to suggest Neandertal as the ancestral source for bipolar vulnerability genes (susceptibility alleles). The EOBD-R hypothesis explains and integrates existing observations: bipolar disorder has the epidemiology of an adaptation;...

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Coping with Seasonal Affective Disorder

Telegraph Health — Sun, 30 Oct 2011 17:17:27 +0100

A light café is the perfect place to lose those SAD 'winter blues', says Jo Carlowe. (Source: Telegraph Health)

The Crisp, Clean Taste of Fall

CounsellingResource.com News and Features — Wed, 28 Sep 2011 12:11:19 +0100

For some prone to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), the recurring dread of impending winter can be offset, at least for a little while, by finding enjoyment in what nature provides us along with these shortening autumn days. For me, that means apples and pumpkins.Tags: depression, seasons (Source: CounsellingResource.com News and Features)

Seasonal Affective Disorder - The Basics

Scientific American - Official RSS Feed — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 12:23:00 +0100

First published on February 05, 2006. [More] (Source: Scientific American - Official RSS Feed)

Hibernate with Cookies and Improve the Symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder

Psychology Today Food and Diet Center — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 22:30:03 +0100

The early signs of Seasonal Affective Disorder are popping up like newly-harvested apples at a farmer's market. As the earlier sunrises and sunsets mark the beginning of Fall, many of us are experiencing subtle but real changes in our mood, appetite, sleepiness, and interest in work and social activities. Primary Topic: Depression read more (Source: Psychology Today Food and Diet Center)

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The Relationship Between Bipolar Disorder, Seasonality, and Premenstrual Symptoms

Current Psychiatry Reports — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 16:08:26 +0100

Abstract Cyclical mood disorders characterized by shifting affective states include bipolar disorder, seasonal affective disorder, and premenstrual syndrome/premenstrual dysphoric disorder. In this article, we explore the relationship between these disorders and bring the reader up to date on the advances made in the past year in understanding the relationship between bipolar disorder, seasonality, and premenstrual symptoms. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory DAVID S. JANOWSKY, SECTION EDITORPages 1-4DOI 10.1007/s11920-011-0233-zAuthors Deborah R. Kim, Department of Psychiatry, Penn Center for Women’s Behavioral Wellness, University of Pennsylvania, 3535 Market Street, 3rd Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USAKathryn A. Czarkowski, Department of Psychiatry, Penn Cente...

Caffeine & Vitamin D? Make Mine a Double!

Psychology Today Depression Center — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 17:18:13 +0100

September ushers in a change of season and, for many, a change in mood or energy level. If you're someone who is affected by seasonal changes or seasonal affective disorder, now may be the perfect time to think about coping strategies.read more (Source: Psychology Today Depression Center)

Mental health and employment: The SAD story.

Economics and Human Biology — Fri, 26 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Authors: Tefft N Abstract This paper explores the relationship between health-related quality of life (HRQOL) measures and employment status in light of a constructed index related to Seasonal Affective Disorder that depends only on latitude and day of year. In models including demographic covariates and indicators for state, year, and quarter, more hours of darkness is associated with poorer HRQOL, which in turn is associated with a lower likelihood of employment. The relationships between the darkness index and HRQOL measures are stronger overall for women than for men. Inclusion of both the darkness index and the HRQOL measures in models of employment status determinants provides some evidence that the former operates through the latter in predicting a lower likelihood of employ...

Delayed sleep phase syndrome is related to seasonal affective disorder

Journal of Affective Disorders — Wed, 24 Aug 2011 14:32:07 +0100

Abstract: Background: Both delayed sleep phase syndrome (DSPS) and seasonal affective disorder (SAD) may manifest similar delayed circadian phase problems. However, the relationships and co-morbidity between the two conditions have not been fully studied. The authors examined the comorbidity between DSPS and SAD.Methods: We recruited a case series of 327 DSPS and 331 controls with normal sleep, roughly matched for age, gender, and ancestry. Both DSPS and controls completed extensive questionnaires about sleep, the morningness–eveningness trait, depression, mania, seasonality of symptoms, etc.Results: The prevalences of SAD and subsyndromal SAD (S-SAD) were higher in DSPS compared to controls (χ2=12.65, p=0.002). DSPS were 3.3 times more likely to report SAD (odds ratio, 3.34; 95% CI, 1....

SUNSCREENS – Are They An Oxymoron?

Health WorldNet — Tue, 16 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0100

It’s everywhere and everybody does it…uses sunscreen, that is. There’s sunscreen in just about every cosmetic and lotion available, as well as most lip balms throughout the planet. Yet, skin cancer including melanoma is on the rise, just look at Australia. And, not to rub it in, a recent study even suggests that sunscreens may have a role in promoting Vitamin D deficiency, depression such as seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and even cancer! (Source: Health WorldNet)

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Abnormal Hypothalamic Response to Light in Seasonal Affective Disorder. - Vandewalle G, Hébert M, Beaulieu C, Richard L, Daneault V, Garon ML, Leblanc J, Grandjean D, Maquet P, Schwartz S, Dumont M, Doyon J, Carrier J.

SafetyLit: All (Unduplicated) — Sat, 13 Aug 2011 04:06:57 +0100

BACKGROUND: Vulnerability to the reduction in natural light associated with fall/winter is generally accepted as the main trigger of seasonal affective disorder (SAD), whereas light therapy is a treatment of choice of the disorder. However, the relationshi... (Source: SafetyLit: All (Unduplicated))

Surface facial electromyography, skin conductance, and self-reported emotional responses to light- and season-relevant stimuli in seasonal affective disorder

Journal of Affective Disorders — Fri, 12 Aug 2011 21:22:50 +0100

Conclusions: These findings suggest that extreme emotional reactivity to light-relevant stimuli may be a correlate of winter depression; and future work should examine its potential onset or maintenance significance. (Source: Journal of Affective Disorders)

Abnormal Hypothalamic Response to Light in Seasonal Affective Disorder

Biological Psychiatry — Mon, 08 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: These results point to the posterior hypothalamus as the neurobiological substrate involved in specific aspects of SAD, including a distinctive response to light and altered emotional responses. (Source: Biological Psychiatry)

Short day lengths alter stress and depressive-like responses, and hippocampal morphology in Siberian hamsters.

Hormones and Behavior — Sat, 06 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100

This study is the first to investigate hippocampal changes in the context of short-day induced immobility and may be relevant for understanding psychological disorders with a seasonal component. PMID: 21851822 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Hormones and Behavior)

Bright light treatment reduces symptoms in older adults with non-seasonal major depression

Evidence-Based Mental Health — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100

QuestionQuestion Is bright light an effective treatment for older adults with non-seasonal major depression? Patients 89 community-dwelling adults (aged ≥60 years) with major depressive disorder (Geriatric Depression Scale score ≥5) recruited from outpatient clinics, general practice and advertising. Depression was confirmed using the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition) Axis I Disorders, the Structured Interview Guide for the Hamilton Scale for Depression (HAM-D) Seasonal Affective Disorder Version and the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale. Exclusions: psychiatric, neurological or opthalmological comorbidity; research incompatibility; and miscellaneous, unspecified conditions. Setting Community setti...

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Transcendental Meditation: What Is It and How Does It Work?

Psych Central — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 22:23:56 +0100

Being that my job is to feature and review books on psychology, spirituality, and especially the intersection between the two, I receive my share of books on meditation. And as a person who has been trying to meditate for two years, but who just can’t seem to get the hang of it, I always open the cover a tad sinister, looking for a magic bullet. The book Transcendence: Healing and Transformation Through Transcendental Meditation was on my decline stack until I read the short bio on Norman Rosenthal, M.D. and became intrigued. He’s a clinical professor of psychiatry at Georgetown Medical School. He conducted research at the National Institute of Mental Health. And he was the one who first described and diagnosed seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Ironically, I knew of him through my goo...

Teaching The Neurons To Meditate

Health News from Medical News Today — Fri, 08 Jul 2011 11:00:00 +0100

In the late 1990s, Jane Anderson was working as a landscape architect. That meant she didn't work much in the winter, and she struggled with seasonal affective disorder in the dreary Minnesota winter months. She decided to try meditation and noticed a change within a month. "My experience was a sense of calmness, of better ability to regulate my emotions," she says... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Teaching the neurons to meditate

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Thu, 07 Jul 2011 04:00:00 +0100

(Association for Psychological Science) In the late 1990s, Jane Anderson was working as a landscape architect. That meant she didn't work much in the winter, and she struggled with seasonal affective disorder in the dreary Minnesota winter months. She decided to try meditation and noticed a change within a month. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

Improvement in Fatigue, Sleepiness, and Health-Related Quality of Life with Bright Light Treatment in Persons with Seasonal Affective Disorder and Subsyndromal SAD

Anesthesiology Research and Practice — Mon, 13 Jun 2011 14:17:40 +0100

Conclusion. Fatigue, excessive daytime sleepiness, and health-related quality of life improve in a similar way as depressed mood following treatment with bright light. The treatment was effective irrespective of the severity of the disorder, that is, for persons with SAD and subsyndromal SAD. (Source: Anesthesiology Research and Practice)

The seasonality of bipolar affective disorder: Comparison with a primary care sample using the Seasonal Pattern Assessment Questionnaire

Journal of Affective Disorders — Wed, 08 Jun 2011 14:22:06 +0100

Abstract: Background: In contrast with recurrent unipolar depression, relatively little is known about the seasonality of depressive episodes in bipolar affective disorder (BAD).Method: We compared responses on the Seasonal Pattern Assessment Questionnaire (SPAQ) between a cohort of 183 patients with BAD and a large sample of patients in primary care (N=4746). Comparisons were adjusted for age and gender.Results: 27% of the BAD patients fulfilled SPAQ criteria for Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD. This gave an adjusted odds ratio of 3.73 (95% confidence intervals 2.64 to 5.27) in comparison with the rate among the primary care samples. Global seasonality scores were significantly higher among BAD patients (adjusted mean difference 1.73, 95% CI 0.97 to 2.49, p (Source: Journal of Affective ...

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Seasonal symptoms in bipolar and primary care patients

Journal of Affective Disorders — Wed, 08 Jun 2011 14:22:01 +0100

Abstract: Background: There is evidence of seasonality in bipolar affective disorder (BAD) and the preponderance of atypical symptoms in bipolar depressive episodes is also seen in winter type Seasonal Affective Disorder. Differences in seasonal symptoms between BAD and appropriate comparison populations have been scrutinised only in small studies.Methods: Symptoms described on the Seasonal Pattern Assessment Questionnaire (SPAQ) were compared between 183 patients with BAD and 468 patients consulting their general practitioners. Statistical analyses were adjusted for differing age and gender distributions between the two groups.Results: Compared with the general practice patients, subjects with BAD reported greater seasonal fluctuations in mood (p=0.003). On one measure BAD subjects report...

Seasonal differences in the diurnal pattern of cortisol secretion in healthy participants and those with self-assessed seasonal affective disorder

Psychoneuroendocrinology — Wed, 01 Jun 2011 03:20:44 +0100

In conclusion, during the shortened photoperiod in winter, the cortisol response to awakening is attenuated in participants with self-assessed SAD in comparison to controls. These findings contribute to the understanding of the physiology of SAD. (Source: Psychoneuroendocrinology)

Association of the intronic rs2072621 polymorphism of the X-linked GPR50 gene with affective disorder with seasonal pattern.

European Psychiatry — Mon, 09 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100

Authors: Delavest M, Even C, Benjemaa N, Poirier MF, Jockers R, Krebs MO This case-control study found an association between Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and a single nucleotide polymorphism (intronic rs2072621) of the gene encoding GPR50 (an orphan member of the G protein-coupled melatonin receptor subfamily) in females. This may represent a gender-specific risk factor and a molecular link between melatonin and SAD. PMID: 21565467 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: European Psychiatry)

Second-tier natural antidepressants: Review and critique

Journal of Affective Disorders — Fri, 29 Apr 2011 23:08:59 +0100

This article reviews some of the lesser-known natural products with potential psychiatric applications that are starting to emerge with some scientific and clinical evidence and may constitute a next wave of natural antidepressants: Rhodiola rosea, chromium, 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) and inositol. Background information, efficacy data, proposed mechanisms of action, recommended doses, side effects, and precautions are reviewed. We found some encouraging data for the use of these natural products in specific populations of depressed patients. R. rosea is an adaptogen plant that can be especially helpful in treating asthenic or lethargic depression, and may be combined with conventional antidepressants to alleviate some of their common side effects. Chromium has a beneficial effect on eati...

Winter May Be Linked to Postpartum Depression

MedlinePlus Health News — Wed, 20 Apr 2011 21:38:54 +0100

Women who give birth in fall and winter may be more likely to get postpartum depression than those who deliver in the spring, suggests a new study from Sweden.Source: Reuters Health Related MedlinePlus Pages: Postpartum Depression, Seasonal Affective Disorder (Source: MedlinePlus Health News)

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Atypical pattern of rod electroretinogram modulation by recent light history: A possible biomarker of seasonal affective disorder

Psychiatry Research — Mon, 18 Apr 2011 18:09:05 +0100

Abstract: Our goal was to challenge both normal controls and patients with seasonal affective disorders (SAD) to various light histories and then measure their retinal response modulation using the electroretinogram (ERG) in both winter and summer. In winter and summer, 11 normal controls and 12 SAD patients were exposed to three different light conditions for 1 h (10,000, 100 and 5 lux) followed by an ERG. Groups showed similar ERG amplitudes in the 100 lux condition. Compared with the 100-lux condition, in controls, the ERG response was significantly increased in the 5-lux condition; in SAD, it was significantly decreased in the 10,000-lux condition. This pattern was present in both seasons. This is the first time a retinal response modulation anomaly has been observed in SAD patients in...

‘D’ for depression: any role for vitamin D?

Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: There is currently insufficient evidence to argue strongly for vitamin D supplementation in patients with depression, but such a strategy is worthy of consideration in depressed patients whose lifestyle and geographical residence may indicate a risk of vitamin D insufficiency – or where low vitamin D levels have been quantified. (Source: Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica)

Doctor's Diary: James Le Fanu

Telegraph Health — Fri, 01 Apr 2011 16:19:42 +0100

Can bright light banish the gloom of old age, asks James Le Fanu? (Source: Telegraph Health)

Does Your Depression Get Better in the Spring?

About.com Depression — Tue, 22 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100

If you find yourself falling into a slump during the winter months, but feel much better when spring arrives, you may have what is known as seasonal affective disorder. Seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, is a mood disorder, characterized by symptoms like increased sleep and appetite, weight gain, irritability, sensitivity to rejection and heaviness in the limbs, which occurs when the circadian rhythms of the body are disrupted. The winter months, when we may be stuck indoors during the daylight hours and not getting enough exposure to sunlight, are prime time for seasonal affective disorder....Read Full Post (Source: About.com Depression)

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Spring Forward, Fall Back Into Depression?

About.com Depression — Tue, 15 Mar 2011 05:42:01 +0100

SAD and symptom seasonality common in BAD patients

MedWire News - Bipolar Disorder — Mon, 14 Mar 2011 10:18:35 +0100

Patients with bipolar affective disorder are significantly more likely to have seasonal affective disorder and display symptom seasonality than other patients in primary care, research shows. (Source: MedWire News - Bipolar Disorder)

Seasonal Affective Disorder - The Winter Blues

Disabled World — Mon, 21 Feb 2011 00:41:27 +0100

Beating the Winter Blues - Winter's chill, dark days, devoid of sunshine can send the best of us spiraling into a bad case of the blues. (Source: Disabled World)

SAD This Valentine's Day? Curb It With a Chocolate Kiss

Psychology Today Food and Diet Center — Sun, 13 Feb 2011 18:56:58 +0100

Widespread frigid temperatures, mounds of snow and days of gray skies have millions spending this February 14th hunkered down at home with the winter blues, also known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Lack of sunlight and cold temperatures trigger a change in brain chemistry that turn SAD sufferers into drowsy, depressed eating machines.read more (Source: Psychology Today Food and Diet Center)

Association of seasonality and premenstrual symptoms in Bipolar I and Bipolar II disorders

Journal of Affective Disorders — Sat, 12 Feb 2011 18:31:45 +0100

This study aimed at investigating these two cyclic traits with respect to bipolar I and II disorders as well as evaluating the association between them.Methods: Subjects included 61 female patients with bipolar I or II disorders and 122 healthy women. Seasonality and premenstrual symptoms were measured retrospectively on a lifetime basis using the Seasonal Pattern Assessment Questionnaire (SPAQ) and the Premenstrual Symptoms Screening Tool (PSST).Results: Patients showed higher global seasonality scores on the SPAQ compared to the normal controls. Further, the patient-control difference was more prominent in cases of bipolar II disorder (p (Source: Journal of Affective Disorders)

Why Is This Woman Sad?

Medscape Med Students Headlines — Fri, 11 Feb 2011 17:00:00 +0100

A 28-year-old woman presents with a depressed mood, and complains of fatigue and weight gain. Could this be seasonal affective disorder? USMLEasy from McGraw-Hill (Source: Medscape Med Students Headlines)

The Truth About Seasonal Affective Disorder

Medscape Nurses Headlines — Thu, 03 Feb 2011 14:44:16 +0100

Too much light, or too little light? Many common misconceptions exist about SAD. Medscape Psychiatry & Mental Health (Source: Medscape Nurses Headlines)

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Blame It on Winter: Newborns' Exposure to Daylight Affects Mental Health for Life

Scientific American - Official RSS Feed — Tue, 25 Jan 2011 13:00:00 +0100

Several recent studies have suggested that winter-born babies are more likely than summer ones to develop conditions such as schizophrenia, depression and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). [More] (Source: Scientific American - Official RSS Feed)

What is the Dose of Light Therapy for Seasonal Affective Disorder?

PediatricEducation.org — Mon, 17 Jan 2011 00:19:22 +0100

Discussion Seasonal affective disorder was first systematically described in 1984. It can occur at different times of the year but predominantly winter and less commonly summer. The DSM IV criteria includes: There is a temporal relationship between the onset of major depressive episodes and a particular time of year. Full remissions (or a change from depression to mania or hypomania) also occur at a characteristic time of year. In the last two years, two major depressive episodes have occurred that demonstrate the temporal seasonal relationships defined in the two criteria above and no nonseasonal major depressive episodes have occurred during the same period. Seasonal major depressive episodes substantially outnumber the nonseasonal major depressive episodes that may have occurred over t...

Casting Good Light for Senior Mood

Psychology Today Depression Center — Thu, 13 Jan 2011 22:33:10 +0100

It is well known that in the senior population, many factors can contribute to poor mood: low nutrient status, hormonal imbalance, changes of life, other health conditions, and loss of loved ones.One study from the Netherlands suggests that changes in circadian rhythm and how your brain's biological clock operates can also play an important role. A recent study of 89 depressed patients over the age of 60 years were split into two groups: one group was given 1 hour of either 7500 lux bright pale blue light therapy in the morning or dim red light, as a control. The elderly patients who had the blue light therapy had better mood, better sleep, and a more balance melatonin response. Melatonin is the hormone released in the early evening when the outside light dims. This hormone is a cruci...

Well: Light Therapy for Depression

NYT Health — Thu, 06 Jan 2011 21:15:11 +0100

Light therapy is typically recommended for seasonal affective disorder, but more patients with depression may benefit from the treatment. (Source: NYT Health)

Fighting SAD and winter fatigue

Health News - UPI.com — Mon, 03 Jan 2011 23:27:38 +0100

BOULDER, Colo., Jan. 3 (UPI) -- Six in 100 Americans suffer from seasonal affective disorder and 50 percent of U.S. adults report winter fatigue, a specialist in alternative medicine says. (Source: Health News - UPI.com)

Wake up and smell the mint tea

Guardian Unlimited Science — Sat, 01 Jan 2011 00:03:08 +0100

Tired? Lethargic? In dire need of 40 winks? Join the club. But how to boost our energy levels without putting in too much effort? Plus, we ask a doctor, a finance whiz, a radio presenter and a chef how they get by on so little sleepI finally accepted the urgent need to sort out my energy levels when the clocks went back last year. The days were suddenly short, drab, dark. I snored through the alarm every morning, then kick-started myself with strong coffee (and often migraine tablets due to a pain behind my eye). By midday, I'd be working out ways to fit in a sneaky nap. Of an evening, I'd drink wine to wind down, before sliding into bed with a laptop, promising myself sleep by at least midnight, then Skyping friends, ordering groceries and reading tomorrow's papers until pa...

Winter Solstice 2010: Good News for Those with "Winter Blues?" (PICTURES)

Health News: CBSNews.com — Mon, 20 Dec 2010 21:03:01 +0100

For Those with Seasonal Affective Disorder, Longer Days - and Relief - Lie Ahead (Source: Health News: CBSNews.com)

Winter Blues? Fast Help for Seasonal Affective Disorder

Health News: CBSNews.com — Mon, 20 Dec 2010 20:17:55 +0100

Feeling Sad This Winter? Craving Carbs and Gaining Weight? Here's Help (Source: Health News: CBSNews.com)

5 ways to keep your spirits up as temperatures drop

USATODAY.com Health — Thu, 16 Dec 2010 00:22:06 +0100

Symptoms of seasonal affective disorder such as low mood, low energy, and oversleeping can dampen holiday cheer. (Source: USATODAY.com Health)

How To Survive The Christmas Blues During Difficult Times

Health News from Medical News Today — Sat, 11 Dec 2010 09:00:00 +0100

Christmas is a time of strong emotions, reflections on lost loved ones and stress from shopping and preparing for seasonal parties and gatherings. Throw in the slow economy and shorter days triggering seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and it shouldn't be surprising that many are beginning to suffer from the Christmas blues. "This is the time of the year when people are vulnerable to depression anyway," said Dr. Angelos Halaris, a psychiatrist with the Loyola University Health System. "The holiday season alone is a burden... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

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Principle of astrology proven to be scientific: planetary position imprints biological clocks of mammals

NaturalNews.com — Sat, 11 Dec 2010 07:00:00 +0100

This study, conducted on mice, showed that mice born in the winter showed a "consistent slowing" of their daytime activity. They were also more susceptible to symptoms that we might call "Seasonal Affective Disorder."The study was carried out by Professor of Biological Sciences Douglas McMahon, graduate student Chris Ciarleglio, post-doctoral fellow Karen Gamble and two additional undergraduate students, none of whom believe in astrology, apparently. They do, of course, believe in science, which is why all their study findings have been draped in the language of science even though the findings are essentially supporting principles of astrology."What is particularly striking about our results is the fact that the imprinting affects both the animal's behavior and the cycling of the neurons ...

Season of Birth May Affect Lifelong Biological Clock, Mental Health

About Sleep Disorders — Thu, 09 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100

In this study, mice were studied in different light conditions and the activity of their suprachiasmatic nuclei -- the region of the brain that serves as the body's central pacemaker -- were monitored in genetically altered mice that allowed this area to glow green when active. Further study will be necessary to determine if this same seasonal impact on lifelong circadian function occurs in humans. Follow me on Twitter or Facebook to receive notice of all the latest updates to this site.Season of Birth May Affect Lifelong Biological Clock, Mental Health originally appeared on About.com Sleep Disorders on Thursday, December 9th, 2010 at 23:15:30.Permalink | Comment | Email this (Source: About Sleep Disorders)

Being Born In Winter Affects Biological Clock, Influencing Neurological Disorder Risk

Health News from Medical News Today — Tue, 07 Dec 2010 19:00:00 +0100

Why does a baby born during the winter months have a higher risk of developing bipolar depression, schizophrenia, SAD (seasonal affective disorder) and other neurological disorders compared to one born during the summer? Scientists from Vanderbilt University, USA, wrote in the journal Nature Neuroscience that exactly when a baby is born can have a dramatic and lifelong effect on the functioning of their biological clocks. Professor of Biological Sciences Douglas McMahon, and team say their experiment provides the first proof of seasonal imprinting of biological clocks in mammals... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Season of birth may have long-term effects on personality, study suggests

ScienceDaily Headlines — Mon, 06 Dec 2010 16:00:00 +0100

The season in which babies are born can have a dramatic and persistent effect on how their biological clocks function. The imprinting effect, which was found in baby mice, may help explain the fact that people born in winter months have a higher risk of a number of neurological disorders including seasonal affective disorder (winter depression), bipolar depression and schizophrenia. (Source: ScienceDaily Headlines)

Why People Get Depressed at Christmas

Psychology Today Work Center — Sun, 28 Nov 2010 17:15:06 +0100

We are told that Christmas, for Christians, should be the happiest time of year, an opportunity to be joyful and grateful with family, friends and colleagues. Yet, according to the National Institute of Health, Christmas is the time of year that people experience the highest incidence of depression. Hospitals and police forces report the highest incidences of suicide and attempted suicide. Psychiatrists, psychologists and other mental health professionals report a significant increase in patients complaining about depression. One North American survey reported that 45% of respondents dreaded the festive season.Why? Is the Grinch in full force during the season? Is it because of the dark winter weather that increases the incidence of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)? Certainly those may be...

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Beat the Blues This Winter

Al Sears, MD Natural Remedies — Wed, 24 Nov 2010 08:37:32 +0100

Dear Health Conscious Reader, Your body depends on getting enough sunlight every day to function properly. Nature designed you that way. Our ancestors lived outdoors every moment of their lives. They hunted meat, fish and fowl. They ate, worked, gathered, celebrated, worshipped and mourned under the sun. So your cells, organs, bones and tissues evolved to rely on sunlight. But just before the turn of the 20th century, our living conditions changed. It started with the invention of the light bulb, which gave us an artificial way to generate light. The industrial revolution soon followed, and people started migrating to the cities and working indoors. This migration indoors combined with modern medical advice has altered our native relationship with the sun forever. Modern medicine tells yo...

Help for the Holidays

About.com Bipolar Disorder — Mon, 22 Nov 2010 18:12:24 +0100

Bipolar Disorder isn't the only condition that makes life difficult during the holidays. Here's a roundup of advice for dealing with many other conditions: Agoraphobia Alcoholism Allergies Arthritis Borderline Personality Disorder Depression Fibromyalgia & Chronic Fatigue Grief Infertility Miscarriage Overweight PTSD Social Anxiety Disorder Seniors' issues Seasonal Affective Disorder Stress All this at Help for the Holidays. Photo: ilco / stock.xchng. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Learn more or join the conversation! NEWSLETTER | FORUM | BIO | FACEBOOK | TWITTER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Help for the Holidays originally appeared on About.com Bipolar Disorder on Mon...

SAD? A dose of artificial Miami sun could be just the light relief you need

the Mail online | Health — Sat, 20 Nov 2010 22:00:36 +0100

There are four million Britons who have to contend with the symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) including depression and lethargy. (Source: the Mail online | Health)

Bright Light Improves SAD Symptoms In Fat Sand Rat Model

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 11 Nov 2010 08:00:00 +0100

Saying goodbye to summer can be difficult for everybody. In some people the onset of winter triggers Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, a mood disorder in which sufferers experience symptoms of depression. Happily, a special kind of gerbil exhibits remarkably similar reactions to SAD treatments as humans, opening a promising new channel for study and treatment of the common complaint. With her work on the Israeli desert inhabitant gerbil called the Fat Sand Rat (Psammomys obesus), Prof. Noga Kronfeld-Schor of Tel Aviv University's Department of Zoology and her fellow researcher, Prof... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Fat sand rats are SAD like us

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Mon, 08 Nov 2010 05:00:00 +0100

(American Friends of Tel Aviv University) With her work on the Israeli desert inhabitant gerbil called the fat sand rat, professor Noga Kronfeld-Schor of Tel Aviv University has found new hope for the study of seasonal affective disorder and similar conditions. Her research indicates that her new test subjects are a more suitable model animal for the study of SAD than the rats and mice used previously. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

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Video: Daylight Savings Time Blues

Health News: CBSNews.com — Fri, 05 Nov 2010 14:24:46 +0100

Dr. Jennifer Ashton has tips on how to stave off Seasonal Affective Disorder - S.A.D. - and stay healthy as the clocks fall back. (Source: Health News: CBSNews.com)

Light deprivation induces depression-like behavior and suppresses neurogenesis in diurnal Mongolian gerbil (Meriones unguiculatus).

Cell Transplantation — Fri, 05 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Lau BW, Ren C, Yang J, L Yan SW, Chang RC, Pu M, So KF Recent evidence suggests that adult neurogenesis contributes to the pathophysiology of different psychiatric disorders including depressive disorder, anxiety disorder and schizophrenia. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a specific form of recurrent depressive disorder that can be induced by shortened light period. It is unclear yet whether neurogenesis is affected in SAD or under altered light/dark cycle. The present study aims at examining whether neurogenesis and dendritic growth of immature neurons are affected in Mongolian gerbils, a mainly diurnal rodent, under light-deprivation. Animals were divided into two groups: the control (kept in 12 h light: 12 h dark) and the light-deprived groups (kept in 24h dark). Depre...

Time to change the clocks?

NHS News Feed — Fri, 29 Oct 2010 12:49:00 +0100

Conclusion This is a wide-ranging report in which the author has gathered together survey findings and national figures to give an estimate of the benefits from a change to what is termed ‘Single Double Summertime’ (SDST). The report provides various pieces of evidence to support the move, and describes the many potential benefits. It is important to note that much of the predicted benefit are estimates, and it is difficult to know whether all possible factors have been taken into account. With regard to the reduction in road deaths in Scotland in particular, these figures are based on estimates from a 1998 study by the Transport Research Laboratory (TRL). As the author of the current report says, the TRL report acknowledged a fair degree of uncertainty in their estimates and “there ...

Seasonal blues? Lack of blue light may be to blame

CNN.com - Health — Wed, 27 Oct 2010 17:19:43 +0100

As winter approaches and the days get shorter, your mood may get darker too. Sunlight deprivation can make people feel lethargic, gloomy, and irritable, and for some it can lead to the condition known as seasonal affective disorder, or winter depression. (Source: CNN.com - Health)

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Learn how to eat the winter blues

Daily Express - Health — Mon, 25 Oct 2010 23:00:00 +0100

WITH the days getting shorter and winter fast approaching, many of us will feel our spirits sag as summer ebbs away. How can you tell if you are just a bit down in the dumps or if you are one of the estimated four million people in the UK who suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) when the clocks go back? (Source: Daily Express - Health)

Before You Buy a Light Box

About.com Depression — Thu, 21 Oct 2010 23:00:00 +0100

Health Tip: Is Your Sadness Related to Seasonal Change?

The Doctors Lounge - Health News — Tue, 19 Oct 2010 14:00:00 +0100

Possible signs of seasonal affective disorder (Source: The Doctors Lounge - Health News)

Winter Runners Reap Physical, Mental Benefits: Expert

The Doctors Lounge - Psychiatry — Fri, 15 Oct 2010 23:00:00 +0100

Outdoor run on cold days may even help prevent seasonal affective disorder, specialist says (Source: The Doctors Lounge - Psychiatry)

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Seasonal affective disorder treatment: Choosing a light box

MayoClinic.com Full Feed — Fri, 01 Oct 2010 05:00:00 +0100

Seasonal affective disorder treatment — Get tips for choosing a light therapy box. (Source: MayoClinic.com Full Feed)

Pathogenesis and management of seasonal affective disorder

Progress in Neurology and Psychiatry — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 23:00:00 +0100

Abstract (Source: Progress in Neurology and Psychiatry)

Depression May Cause Loss of Smell

About.com Depression — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 23:00:00 +0100

Depression, schizophrenia and seasonal affective disorder are all known to suppress the sense of smell and some University of Dresden Medical School researchers think they now know why this occurs. This loss of smell may be due to a part of the brain which is responsible for the sense of smell being smaller than normal, they say....Read Full Post (Source: About.com Depression)

Increased sensitivity to light-induced melatonin suppression in premenstrual dysphoric disorder.

Chronobiology International — Sat, 31 Jul 2010 23:00:00 +0100

INCREASED SENSITIVITY TO LIGHT-INDUCED MELATONIN SUPPRESSION IN PREMENSTRUAL DYSPHORIC DISORDER. Chronobiol Int. 2010 Aug.;27(7):1438-1453 Authors: Parry BL, Meliska CJ, Sorenson DL, Lopez A, MartÃnez LF, Hauger RL, Elliott JA Increased sensitivity to light-induced melatonin suppression characterizes some, but not all, patients with bipolar illness or seasonal affective disorder. The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that patients with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), categorized as a depressive disorder in Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV), have altered sensitivity to 200 lux light during mid-follicular (MF) and late-luteal (LL) menstrual cycle phases compared with normal control (NC) women. As an extension of a...

Praying for Rain, Thanks to Summer Seasonal Affect Disorder

Psychology Today Anxiety Center — Thu, 08 Jul 2010 17:13:01 +0100

Today my home in the San Francisco Bay Area is completely socked in by thick fog. Seriously, I can't even see the house across the street. July 4 was a total washout: As usual, we couldn't see the fireworks over the bay, and just heard dim thumps through the chilly fog. I just received a voicemail message (because I'm not big on actually answering my phone) from someone who lives a mile away."It's freezing. Summers in this town are horrible," she said.They are -- if you actually crave sunshine.Which I do, but apparently there is a form of Seasonal Affect Disorder whose sufferers hate sunshine and strive to avoid it. Bright summer days without a cloud in the sky depress these folks. A story from Seattle's KIRO radio today looks into this small subset of a syndrome much better known for maki...

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Seasonality and winter-type seasonal depression are associated with the rs731779 polymorphism of the serotonin-2A receptor gene

European Neuropsychopharmacology — Sun, 27 Jun 2010 23:00:00 +0100

Abstract: Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), seasonality and increased sensitivity to the fluctuation of seasons in biological and psychological parameters can manifest to varying degrees across a normal population. The serotonin-2A (5-HT2A) receptor gene has long been suggested as a candidate for the genetic basis of this phenomenon. We hypothesized that functional sequence variation in this gene could contribute to seasonality and the development of winter- and/or summer-type seasonal depression. Seasonality was measured by the self-rating Global Seasonality Score (GSS) of the Seasonal Pattern Assessment Questionnaire, and SAD by the Seasonal Health Questionnaire (SHQ). We analysed associations between GSS or SAD scores and 5-HTR2A receptor gene polymorphisms rs731779, rs985934 and rs631...

The total failure of modern psychiatry

NaturalNews.com — Sun, 27 Jun 2010 07:00:00 +0100

(NaturalNews) Modern psychiatry went wrong when it embraced the idea that the mind should be treated with drugs, says Edward Shorter of the University of Toronto, writing in the Wall Street Journal. Shorter studies the history of psychiatry and medicine.Modern U.S. psychiatry has adopted a philosophy that psychological diseases arise from chemical imbalances and therefore have a very specific cluster of symptoms, he says, in spite of evidence that the difference between many so-called disorders is minimal or nonexistent. These "disorders" are then treated with expensive drugs that are no more effective than a placebo."Psychiatry seems to have lost its way in a forest of poorly verified diagnoses and ineffectual medications," he writes.Shorter calls for U.S. psychiatry to abandon its emph...

Management of seasonal affective disorder

BMJ Online First — Fri, 21 May 2010 15:38:20 +0100

(Source: BMJ Online First)

Effect of Seasonal Affective Disorder and Pathological Tanning Motives on Efficacy of an Appearance-Focused Intervention to Prevent Skin Cancer [Study]

Archives of Dermatology — Mon, 17 May 2010 19:51:21 +0100

Conclusions The appearance-focused skin cancer prevention intervention is robust enough to reduce indoor tanning among tanners who exhibit SAD symptoms or pathological tanning motives. Tailored interventions may address individuals' motivations for tanning and their relation to maladaptive behavior, such as dissatisfaction with appearance or the need for relaxation because of anxiety. (Source: Archives of Dermatology)

Appearance-Focused Approach May Reduce Indoor Tanning

Modern Medicine — Sun, 16 May 2010 23:00:00 +0100

Among women who tan indoors and exhibit seasonal affective disorder (SAD) symptoms or pathological tanning motives, an appearance-focused skin cancer prevention intervention may help reduce indoor tanning, according to a study published in the May issue of Archives of Dermatology. (Source: Modern Medicine)

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Scientists Clock Onto How Sunlight Puts A Spring In Our Step

Health News from Medical News Today — Sat, 01 May 2010 07:00:00 +0100

Scientists have discovered two "body clock" genes that reveal how seasonal changes in hormones are controlled and could ultimately help find treatments for seasonal affective disorder. Researchers at the Universities of Edinburgh and Manchester also found that one of these genes (EYA3) has a similar role in both birds and mammals. showing a common link that has been conserved for more than 300 million years. Scientists studied thousands of genes in Soay sheep... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Seasonal Affective Disorder

MedicineNet Senior Health General — Thu, 29 Apr 2010 07:00:00 +0100

Title: Seasonal Affective DisorderCategory: Diseases and ConditionsCreated: 11/8/1999Last Editorial Review: 4/29/2010 (Source: MedicineNet Senior Health General)

Scientists clock onto how sunlight puts a spring in our step

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Thu, 29 Apr 2010 04:00:00 +0100

(University of Edinburgh) Scientists have discovered two "body clock" genes that reveal how seasonal changes in hormones are controlled and could ultimately help find treatments for seasonal affective disorder.Researchers at the Universities of Edinburgh and Manchester also found that one of these genes has a similar role in both birds and mammals. showing a common link that has been conserved for more than 300 million years. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

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Can Nutrition Help Fight or Ward Off Depression?

Psych Central — Wed, 28 Apr 2010 15:54:30 +0100

Depression is a debilitating but widespread condition involving low mood, low self-esteem, and loss of interest or pleasure in normally enjoyable activities. Nutrition may have the potential to affect a person’s risk of depression, its symptoms and its severity. The link is frequently explored in research studies, but the results are not yet conclusive. Some aspects of nutrition that may be associated with depression include omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins C and E, folate, alcohol, caffeine, and overall style of diet such as the “western” diet containing processed foods. Some people eat more when they are depressed, while others eat less. In any case, it is likely that a depressed person will not prioritize healthy eating all the time. Fast food or comfort food can seem mor...

A randomized, placebo-controlled trial of bright light and high-density negative air ions for treatment of Seasonal Affective Disorder

Psychiatry Research — Thu, 22 Apr 2010 16:03:46 +0100

This study, conducted over the course of 5 years, assessed the antidepressant efficacy of two active treatments, bright white light and high-density negative ions, and the efficacy of two placebo treatments, dim red light and low-density negative ions, for Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). In a controlled laboratory setting, 73 women with SAD were exposed to one of the four treatment conditions over 12 consecutive days. Pretreatment expectation ratings did not significantly differ among the four treatment groups; however, expectation scores and treatment benefits were positively related. Over the course of treatment, subjects in all four groups showed significant score decreases on the Structured Interview Guide for the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale–Seasonal Affective Disorder Versio...

Alaska Northern Lights Offers Bright Light Therapy To Combat Common Health Problems

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 01 Apr 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Alaska Northern Lights manufactures a bright light therapy box that aids in treating chronic health problems such as seasonal affective disorder (SAD), depression, bipolar disorder and sleep problems. Sufferers of SAD, a form of clinical depression, include up to 25 percent of those living in northern latitudes who experience varying degrees of SAD during winter months when there is less natural light. Night shift workers are also susceptible to SAD which affects over one third of the population, or about 10.8 million Americans... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Happier News for Those Suffering From SAD

Health News: CBSNews.com — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 19:30:11 +0100

Doctors Eye New Treatments for Seasonal Affective Disorder, Shedding Light on Winter Depression (Source: Health News: CBSNews.com)

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Spring Forward, Fall Back Into Depression?

About.com Depression — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 05:42:01 +0100

While many look forward to Daylight Saving Time and having more light at the end of the day, others, especially those with seasonal affective disorder (SAD), may find themselves slipping back into depression at this time of year. SAD, according to experts, is caused by a disturbance in our circadian rhythm. Light entering into the eye controls this rhythm; but, during the winter months when days are shorter we may not be exposed to sufficient light during the morning hours, throwing our circadian rhythm off-balance and creating the symptoms of SAD (depression, fatigue and a craving for sweets). For those with SAD, the longer days of spring bring relief from depression. The arrival of Daylight Saving Time, however, may cause a temporary return of these symptoms as you are forced to once...

Happier News for Those Suffering From SAD

Health News: CBSNews.com — Sun, 14 Mar 2010 16:00:12 +0100

Doctors Eye New Treatments for Seasonal Affective Disorder, Shedding Light on Winter Depression (Source: Health News: CBSNews.com)

Daylight Savings: Not a Bright Time for All

MedlinePlus Health News — Sun, 14 Mar 2010 11:00:00 +0100

People with SAD may be more affected by the shift in daylight, experts say Source: HealthDay Related MedlinePlus Page: Seasonal Affective Disorder (Source: MedlinePlus Health News)

Seasonal affective disorder increasingly a workplace issue

Los Angeles Times - Science — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 01:20:00 +0100

Some employees seek adjustments for SAD, serious depression triggered by limited daylight. One teacher sued a school district that refused to move her from a windowless basement room. Since she was hired two years ago as a medical assistant, Jennifer Simonsis has come to an agreement with her employer: During the winter, she gets time off to see her doctor, frequent breaks and help in setting up a light-therapy lamp at her desk. (Source: Los Angeles Times - Science)

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Validity of the Definite and Semidefinite Questionnaire version of the Hamilton Depression Scale, the Hamilton Subscale and the Melancholia Scale. Part I

European Archives of Psychiatry and Clinical Neuroscience — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 10:01:11 +0100

This study was longitudinal with 85 patients fulfilling the DSM-III-R diagnosis of Seasonal Affective Disorder. Self-reporting versions (definitely and semidefinitely anchored) corresponding to the Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD), the Hamilton Subscale (HAM6), and the Bech–Rafaelsen Melancholia Scale (MES) were compared to each other and the clinician-rated version. The unidimensional property of the sum score in each scale was tested by the item-response theory model ad modum Rasch. The scales were also tested for their sensitivity to discriminate between placebo and citalopram therapy. The sum scores and the sum score variances of the definite self-rating versions did not differ significantly from the sum scores of the corresponding observer scales at any of the five time points...

Bioidentical Hormones Used To Treat Seasonal Affective Disorder

Endocrinology News From Medical News Today — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 11:00:00 +0100

Patients Medical, a leading integrative and holistic medicine center in New York City, offers cutting-edge Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) to help women transition from winter to spring when hormonal modulations are especially high... (Source: Endocrinology News From Medical News Today)

Clinical Roundup: How Do You Treat Seasonal Affective Disorder in Your Practice?

Alternative & Complementary Therapies — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 04:41:48 +0100

Alternative and Complementary Therapies Feb 2010, Vol. 16, No. 1: 55-58. (Source: Alternative & Complementary Therapies)

When a season means depression. - Gagné AM, Bouchard G, Tremblay P, Sasseville A, Hebert M.

SafetyLit: All (Unduplicated) — Sat, 13 Feb 2010 15:31:42 +0100

Although becoming more and more recognized among physicians and psychiatrists the etiology of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) remains unclear. Indeed, the only incontestable fact is the close link between the decrease in sunlight occurring during fall an... (Source: SafetyLit: All (Unduplicated))

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Extraskeletal effects of vitamin D in older adults: Cardiovascular disease, mortality, mood, and cognition.

The American Journal of Geriatric Pharmacotherapy — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Vitamin D insufficiency appears to be highly prevalent among older adults. Evidence from epidemiologic studies and small clinical trials suggests an association between 25(OH)D concentrations and systolic blood pressure, risk for CV disease-related deaths, symptoms of depression, cognitive deficits, and mortality. The Women's Health Initiative Randomized Trial did not find a benefit of vitamin D supplementation on blood pressure, myocardial infarction, or mortality in postmenopausal women. PMID: 20226390 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: The American Journal of Geriatric Pharmacotherapy)

Beating the Winter Blues?

Dr. Weil Q&A — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 17:07:32 +0100

I think I have SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder). What kind of treatment do you recommend? (Source: Dr. Weil Q&A)

Seasonal Changes in Brain Serotonin Transporter Binding in Short Serotonin Transporter Linked Polymorphic Region-Allele Carriers but Not in Long-Allele Homozygotes

Biological Psychiatry — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Our findings are in line with S-carriers having an increased response in neural circuits involved in emotional processing to stressful environmental stimuli but here demonstrated as a endophenotype with dynamic changes in serotonin reuptake. (Source: Biological Psychiatry)

Nutritional interventions for treatment of seasonal affective disorder.

CNS Neuroscience and Therapeutics — Sun, 17 Jan 2010 00:24:03 +0100

Authors: Palinkas LA PMID: 20070785 [PubMed - in process] (Source: CNS Neuroscience and Therapeutics)

Climatic relationships with specific clinical subtypes of depression

Psychiatry Research — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 16:57:27 +0100

This study aimed to overcome these methodological issues. During an 8-year timeframe, onset rates of unipolar depressive episodes requiring hospitalization from individuals living up to 15 km from a selected meteorological station were stratified by clinical subtypes and modeled as Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) functions of orthogonal climatic factors obtained by Principal Components Analysis (PCA). For comparison purposes, onset rates stratified by demographic factors and by diagnosis of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and admission rates were also modeled. The main findings were a negative 1--month delayed relationship between onset rates of episodes with melancholic features and a climatic factor mainly composed of ambient temperature/sunlight, and a negative 1-mon...

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Feeling SAD? Try lightening the mood

Telegraph Health — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 15:45:23 +0100

Seasonal affective disorder is growing. But there are products that can brighten our day. (Source: Telegraph Health)

Seasonal Affective Disorder

About.com Bipolar Disorder — Fri, 25 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100

, or SAD, can often occur in people who have bipolar disorder or clinical depression. Here is information out, and resources for dealing with, Seasonal Affective Disorder. (Source: About.com Bipolar Disorder)

I used to think winter blues were a con, now I've seen the light

the Mail online | Health — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 10:59:00 +0100

Seasonal affective disorder - SAD - was something I used to think people made up as an excuse to be grumpy. How could a lack of sunlight make you depressed? (Source: the Mail online | Health)

SAD: Seasonal Affective Disorder

What's New on MedlinePlus — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 05:00:00 +0100

Does the season get you down? It could be SAD. Learn more by visiting the MedlinePlus topic page and watching a video. (Source: What's New on MedlinePlus)

Why People Get Depressed at Christmas

Psychology Today Work Center — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 02:27:28 +0100

We are told that Christmas, for Christians, should be the happiest time of year, an opportunity to be joyful and grateful with family, friends and colleagues. Yet, according to the National Institute of Health, Christmas is the time of year that people experience the highest incidence of depression. Hospitals and police forces report the highest incidences of suicide and attempted suicide. Psychiatrists, psychologists and other mental health professionals report a significant increase in patients complaining about depression. One North American survey reported that 45% of respondents dreaded the festive season. Why? Is the Grinch in full force during the season? Is it because of the dark winter weather that increases the incidence of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)? Certainly those ma...

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Is light therapy a good depression treatment option?

MayoClinic.com Full Feed — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 06:00:00 +0100

Light therapy is a good treatment option for seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Sponsored by:Chemotherapy.com - http://www.chemotherapy.com (Source: MayoClinic.com Full Feed)

Vitamin D prevents heart disease

NaturalNews.com — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 07:00:00 +0100

(NaturalNews) Vitamin D is best known for its anti-cancer effects, but suddenly, following a flurry of recent research, it's becoming increasingly recognized for its ability to prevent diseases like diabetes and depression. Now heart disease is also emerging as a chronic health condition that vitamin D can help prevent.Here, we've assembled a collection of relevant research quotations on vitamin D and heart disease from authors like Phyllis Balch, Dr. James Dowd, Dr. Joel Fuhrman and many more. Enjoy this unique collection!Vitamin D in the prevention of heart diseaseDiabetes, both type-1 and type-2, are profoundly linked to low vitamin D levels. Obesity, heart disease, hypertension and stroke are inversely related to sunlight exposure and vitamin D levels. Psoriasis, eczema, and periodonta...

Bah, Humbug!

About.com Bipolar Disorder — Sat, 05 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Seasonal Affective Disorder plus December holidays can equal disaster! (Source: About.com Bipolar Disorder)

Bright Ideas for Treating Winter Blues

WSJ.com: Health — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 02:03:00 +0100

There is now hope for sufferers of seasonal affective disorder, which causes symptoms including depression, lethargy, irritability and a desire to avoid social situations. (Source: WSJ.com: Health)

December Is Seasonal Depression Awareness Month

About.com Depression — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

With the shortest days of the year falling in December, this is the peak time for seasonal affective disorder. Could it be a lack of sunlight that's causing your winter blues? Click through to learn more about SAD and what you can do to defeat seasonal mood changes. Read More December Is Seasonal Depression Awareness Month originally appeared on About.com Depression on Tuesday, December 1st, 2009 at 00:01:53.Permalink | Comment | Email this (Source: About.com Depression)

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Vitamin D prevents heart disease

NaturalNews.com — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 07:00:00 +0100

(NaturalNews) The fact that vitamin D prevents cancer is now so well known that even some conventional physicians are beginning to recommend it. Vitamin D prevents 77% of all cancers, after all. That's as close to a "cure" for cancer as you'll ever get (and it's free, too, since you can make it yourself!).But did you also know that vitamin D prevents heart disease? In fact, most people suffering from heart disease are chronically deficient in vitamin D. By correcting their vitamin D levels (through sunlight exposure or by taking vitamin D3 supplements), people can simultaneously halt cancer and prevent heart disease, too.Here's a collection of research revealing the amazing power of this "miracle" vitamin to eliminate heart disease. I'd like to add, though, that the previously recommended ...

Winter Moods - a look at seasonal affective disorder (S.A.D.)

About.com Bipolar Disorder — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Resources for defeating seasonal affective disorder or SAD, which can often accompany bipolar disorder or unipolar depression. (Source: About.com Bipolar Disorder)

Before You Buy a Light Box

About.com Depression — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

There are many products on the market that claim to help Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), but not all meet the recommended requirements. These are the requirements recommended by the Center for Environmental Therapeutics (CET) for effective light box therapy. Make sure that any unit you purchase meets these specifications. Light Box Requirements : Feeling SAD As the Days Grow Shorter? SAD Symptoms The Best Treatment for SAD Alternatives to Bright Light Therapy for SAD Light Therapy for Disorders Other Than SAD Before You Buy a Light Box originally appeared on About.com Depression on Sunday, November 8th, 2009 at 00:30:48.Permalink | Comment | Email this (Source: About.com Depression)

It's Time to Be SAD

Psychology Today Depression Center — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 16:07:48 +0100

There's no mistaking that our lovely planet has now wobbled its seasonal wobble and tilted those of us in the northern hemisphere away from the sun until the winter solstice passes, and we wobble back again.All that to say, it is DANG DARK OUTSIDE!For most people, the shortening of days is an annoying but normal part of winter, and they light a little candle and just deal. But for some of us, the lack of light leads to decreased serotonin production, a slowing of bodily functions and a steady descent into a state of depression. This condition is called Seasonal Affective Disorder, bittersweetly acronymed SAD.The Psychology Today website states:Seasonal affective disorder (also called SAD) is a type of depression that follows the seasons. The most common type of SAD is called winter depress...