Instructions & Questions Here you are able to raise your hand, or request the speaker to speak louder/softer. This area allows you to comment or ask the presenter questions. If you cannot currently hear the audio, please call To start a private chat

FIGHTING OFF THE WINTER BLUES SAD (SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER) Lisa M. Borelli LISW

SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER What is SAD? Who gets SAD? What causes SAD? Signs and Symptoms Treatment/Coping Skills Resources Questions

WHAT IS SAD? Mood disorder Cyclic in nature Daylight is shorter October – April Prominent in January/February

WHO GETS SAD? Dr. Norm Rosenthal – NIMH Young adult population More in women than men – ¾ of dx Average onset is age 23 Areas in northern hemispheres Mild winter SAD – 25% Severe SAD – 5%

THEORIES ABOUT SAD Overproduction of melatonin Serotonin wanes in winter Eye sensitivity in dim light Body clock disruption

SIGNS/SYMPTOMS Low energy Fatigue Appetite changes Sleep changes Poor focus Irritability Fall onset or Spring onset Anger Lowered sex drive Carbohydrate cravings Decrease in interest in daily activities Symptoms subside in spring/summer months

TREATMENT/COPING SKILLS Counseling Medication – SSRI’S Light therapy Exercise Wake/Sleep cycles Support Nutrition Decrease alcohol use Spend time outdoors Education/Family Stress Management Physician consult

RESOURCES Ohio State Employee Assistance Program OSU HEALTH PLAN

QUESTIONS Ohio State Employee Assistance Program Lisa M. Borelli LISW