Winter Days
SAD Symptoms
When seasonal disorders go beyond mild
gloominess and represent a pattern of recurring
episodes, a form of depression known as seasonal
affective disorder (SAD) may be to blame. A
SAD diagnosis typically results when patients
experience the following symptoms for at least
two winters:
• Irritability
• Low energy levels
• Reduced ability to concentrate
• Sleep schedule changes and oversleeping
• Social avoidance
• Weight gain
Preventing SAD
To avoid SAD, try the following tactics:
• Maintain a regular sleep schedule.
• Soak up some sunlight every day.
• Go without sunglasses when possible, as the
amount of light your eyes absorb can affect
your mood.
• Eat a fresh, balanced diet.
• Use full-spectrum light bulbs.
• Ask your doctor about a vitamin D
3
supplement.
If your symptoms of seasonal depression persist, the
professionals at North Shore-LIJ can help. To fi nd a
physician, visit fi nd-a-doctor.northshorelij.com.
MOOD CHANGES CAUSED
by seasonal disorders affect
an estimated 10 percent to
20 percent of Americans.
In the United States, the
disorders are most common
in northern climates,
where days are shorter and
sunlight is less abundant.
After the excitement of the holidays and
the stress of returning to a routine, the
short days of January and February can
take a toll on your mood.
SAD patients report sleeping
an average of
2.5 HOURS
more per night in the winter
than in the summer.
Did You Know?
North Shore-Long Island Jewish Health System, Inc.
Plainview and Syosset Hospitals
888 Old Country Road, Plainview, NY 11803
MICHAEL DOWLING
President and CEO,
North Shore-LIJ
Health System
WINIFRED MACK, RN
Regional Executive
Director
MICHAEL FENER
Executive Director
Plainview and Syosset
Hospitals
TERRY LYNAM
VP, Public Relations
North Shore-LIJ
ALEXANDRA ZENDRIAN
Editor
Focus on Health is published by the Public Relations Department of
Plainview and Syosset Hospitals (516-465-2600). The information
within this publication is intended to educate readers about subjects
pertinent to their health and is not meant to be a substitute for
consultation with a personal physician. Produced by True North
Custom, Chattanooga, TN. © 2015. Printed in USA.
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