Common Signs and Treatment Options of Seasonal Affective Disorder for Seniors
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Common Signs and Treatment Options of Seasonal Affective Disorder for Seniors

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a form of depression. The episodes of this type of depression tend to happen during certain seasons or times of the year. There are two types of SAD:

  • Fall-onset: it is also known as winter depression. The symptoms begin to show in the late fall through the winter and end when summer begins.
  • Spring-onset: It is also known as summer depression. The symptoms begin in late spring to early summer.

While the exact cause of SAD is not fully established, less sunlight and shorter days are thought to trigger a chemical change in the brain resulting in depression.

A common theory is that light stimulates the hypothalamus, a part of the brain that controls mood, appetite, and sleep. Limited exposure to sunlight triggers certain brain chemicals to stop the hypothalamus from working properly. While SAD can affect anyone at any age, seniors are more at risk.

Concerned for your senior loved ones in Knoxville, Maryville, Clinton, and Loudon? Look out for the following signs of SAD they may be exhibiting:

  • Irritability
  • Social withdrawal
  • Poor sleeping patterns
  • Anxiety
  • Fatigue
  • Feelings of hopelessness
  • Reduced interest in hobbies formerly enjoyed
  • Increased appetite for sweet foodstuff
  • Weight gain
  • Low sex drive
  • Reduced ability to concentrate
  • Headaches
  • Trouble thinking clearly
  • Thoughts of not wanting to live
  • Feeling sad throughout the day
  • Episodes of violent behaviors
  • Agitation

Risk Factors of SAD

  • Family history: Individuals with blood relatives living with any form of depression are at a high risk of developing SAD
  • Bipolar disorder: People with this kind of disorder have a high chance of experiencing SAD
  • Living far from the equator: SAD is common among individuals living far north or south of the equator
  • Reduced level of vitamin D: Vitamin D boosts serotonin activity. Low levels of serotonin due to a decreased level of vitamin D can put one at risk of developing SAD

When to See a Doctor

SAD self-diagnosis is highly advised against because some symptoms may mirror symptoms of other health conditions that could be life-threatening. When your senior loved one in Knoxville, Maryville, Clinton, or Loudon shows symptoms that last for days, it may be a sign to schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider. A thorough evaluation from a healthcare provider helps rule out other potential health issues.

To help diagnose a condition as SAD comprehensively, a mental health practitioner does the following:

  • Physical exam: The health care provider asks in-depth questions about the patient
  • Lab test: It is required to ensure that the symptoms are not related to other medical problems such as thyroid disease.
  • Psychological evaluation: It is a mental health assessment where the mental health professional checks for signs of depression and asks about the symptoms, thought, and behavior pattern. The patient may be required to fill out a questionnaire.

Seasonal Affective Disorder Treatment

The most common treatment options for SAD include the following:

  • Light therapy: It is also known as phototherapy. It involves the use of a special light box that mimics natural light. Individuals are required to sit next to every morning after waking up. Although there isn't enough research on phototherapy, it appears to be an effective treatment option for most people.
  • Psychotherapy: It is also known as talk therapy. Through this treatment option, individuals can learn how to manage stress, develop healthy behaviors, and the ability to identify and change negative thoughts.
  • Antidepressant medications: Medications such as Aplenzin can help reduce depressive episodes in individuals with a SAD history.

Tips to Help Seniors Minimize the Risk of Developing SAD

  • Exercise regularly
  • Eat the right diet
  • Take up hobbies to promote a sense of purpose
  • Caregivers should encourage social interaction
  • Caregivers should show the seniors that they are loved

If you are looking for in-home care for a senior loved one, we can help. Senior Helpers of Greater Knoxville is the premier provider of in-home senior care services around Knoxville, Maryville, Clinton, and Loudon. We offer tailored home care services ranging from companion to in-depth specialized care for seniors with Alzheimer's, Dementia, Parkinson's, and other chronic diseases. Contact us today for an appointment.