Gray skies bring on blue moods

Cindy couldn’t explain why she felt so blue. She had no recent traumas or family concerns and nothing in her career to increase her anxiety. Thinking it might have a physical cause, she consulted her doctor.

After her physician gave her a good health report, he told her she would probably feel better when the weather cleared. She agreed with that as she knew she hated the dark, dreary days of winter.

Living in a northern climate with short winter days, she unfortunately also worked as a research assistant in a building without windows to let in the natural light.

In the past I have discussed seasonal affective disorder (SAD). The research into SAD has become more intense in the last year, giving researchers more information about causes and treatment.

The study of light-dark cycles in animals goes back many years with studies of the internal body clock. Many researchers believe that winter depression may be associated with the slowing down of secretion of a hormone called Melatonin.

SAD differs from other types of depression in that SAD lifts in the spring months. Individuals suffering from SAD complain of less energy during the winter. Many also may sleep several extra hours per day during the winter. They may crave sweet and starchy foods which, of course, can lead to weight gain, possibly making the problem of depression even greater.

Retired people who move south during the winter have said these symptoms disappear when they get out in the sun and move about; so, they look forward to leaving the dark, dreary days behind.

For those who cannot leave their homes, an exposure to extra artificial light has proven, in many cases, to be of great help. Mental health professionals often recommend light therapy.

Using a set of fluorescent bulbs installed in a box with a screen to soften the light, patients sit close to the box and read, write or eat their meals. Sessions can last 30 minutes to three hours, once or twice a day.

Many respond better if the light is used in the morning, right after they awaken, and they usually feel better within a week. Researchers are continuing to find what makes the treatment work.

The body’s internal clock – which controls rhythms of body temperature, hormone secretion and sleep patterns – shifts ahead or is delayed when stimulated by light.

There are no serious side effects, but the treatment should be done only after consulting with a physician. People with cataracts or diabetes should use extreme care.

People living in our area usually have a short period of light deprivation. Our winter days are usually interspersed with days of sunlight and even warm temperatures.

However, the dark, damp, dreary days of the past several weeks have provoked comments of a similar nature to that of Cindy.

In our locale, the best treatment for SAD is using bright lights within our homes and keeping our work areas well lit. keep something yellow nearby since looking at the color yellow, suggestive of sunlight, is a good mood lifter.

As soon as the weather permits, get into the sunlight and take a brisk walk, play golf, or do whatever you enjoy the most to curb the winter doldrums for most.

For more information on SAD, contact the Society for Light Treatment and Biological Rhythms, P.O. Box 478, Wilsonville, OR, 97070 or call (503) 694-2404.

Copyright c 1991 Harold H. LeCrone, Jr., Ph.D.