Seasonal Affective Disorder is common in the region

When the days grow shorter and sunlight gets more and more sparse, people living in northern climates like ours can become affected by seasonal affective disorder (SAD). The National Institute of Health estimates that more than 36 million Americans are affected by SAD every year.

SAD can have a negative impact on our jobs, our relationships and even our day-to-day activities. SAD, also called "winter depression," is caused by a lack of serotonin, a hormone that is produced in response to sunlight. Without enough of this key hormone, we can start to have signs of depression.

Symptoms of SAD include depression or anxiety, fatigue, irritability, carbohydrate cravings and weight gain. Young adults and women are more susceptible to SAD, but no one is immune. Those particularly at risk are people who have recently moved to a northern climate after years spent closer to the equator, where seasonal light and weather conditions are less of an issue.

If you notice that you feel particularly down during the fall and winter months, you may have seasonal affective disorder.

If you do notice a shift in your mood, personality or energy level, start paying attention to how you feel in relation to the weather. If you feel more depressed or anxious on days when the sun is scarce, chances are you may be affected by SAD.

Many people who suffer from SAD don't actually realize that anything is wrong with them, or they may be too affected by their depression to help themselves by seeking treatment. But SAD, in most cases, can be treated and cured.

There are many different treatments for SAD, depending on the severity of the symptoms. Exposure to light can alleviate symptoms in people with a less severe case. Try spending more time outside, as weather permits, especially early in the morning when your body's "clock" needs that extra boost of sunlight to wake up.

If your symptoms are more severe and are affecting your relationships or job performance, you should make an appointment to see your doctor or healthcare professional. He or she may recommend light therapy, or even medication to help your mood get back to normal for the remainder of the season.

If your depression extends beyond the winter months, you may have another type of depression. Discuss your feelings of depression with your doctor so they can help find the best treatment options for you.

? Nikki Luttmann is a community development specialist at Bonner General Hospital.