Ask the Doctor

S.A.D. or Seasonal Affective Disorder is a mood disorder in which people who have normal mental health throughout most of the year experience depressive symptoms in the winter or summer, spring or autumn year after year. In the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV), S.A.D. is not a unique mood disorder, but is "a specifier of major depression". There are many different treatments for classic (winter-based) seasonal affective disorder, including light therapy with sunlight or bright lights, cognitive-behavioral therapy, ionized-air administration, and carefully timed supplementation of the hormone melatonin. Little things make a huge difference in dealing with S.A.D. We need to get up and bring some motion into our lives. Get out of the office for a few minutes during the work day and schedule an exercise regimen. Be aware of the foods you eat and make every attempt to eat a healthy diet that includes fruits, vegetable and whole grains. Proper relaxation techniques, restful sleep and being around people that are positive may also be very helpful. Most importantly make sure that the nerves in your body are functioning properly. Get checked today to see if chiropractic can help you in achieving optimization of your health.