Seasonal Affective Disorder

When the weather is sunny and bright people tend to feel more upbeat and positive. When the weather is gloomy, cold and dismal, moods tend to slump and often people feel a little down.

However, for certain individuals these mood shifts develop into a type of depression that accompanies seasonal changes and affects their ability to function normally. Recurrent episodes of clinical depression that surface during seasonal changes, particularly winter, are referred to as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

This condition is caused by a biochemical imbalance in the hypothalamus – the part of the brain that governs the primary functions of the body such as appetite, temperature, sleep, sex drive, mood and activity.

The hypothalamus is stimulated by natural light entering the eye and striking the retina. When the days are short and sunlight is reduced, the hypothalamus has to adjust its response to the various body mechanisms, slowing down these functions.  Lack of bright light during the winter months may be the cause of the development of symptoms of seasonal affective disorder - bright light affects the chemicals in the brain.

Other research shows that a disrupted body clock (circadian rhythm) causes depression and lethargy. In addition, low serotonin (neurotransmitters carrying messages to the brain) and melatonin levels (the hormone which makes us sleep) can be found in people suffering from SAD.

Herbal Remedies which may help you from suffering from this:

St. John's Wort
Similar in action to prescription antidepressants, St. John's wort has been proven to ease the symptoms of mild to moderate depression with fewer side effects than prescription drugs. St. John's wort will take several weeks to become fully effective.

Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo biloba is used in the treatment of Alzheimer's and stroke because it increases the blood flow to the brain. It also normalizes the levels of certain brain chemicals which may help alleviate depression. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, ginkgo relieves the depression symptoms associated with Alzheimer's disease but it should not be combined with prescription selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRIs) antidepressants.

Serratone
Serotone provides the natural amino acid 5HTP and may help to maintain a balanced outlook and a relaxed approach to life. 5HTP is a precursor to the neurotransmitter serotonin, which promotes feelings of wellbeing, calmness, personal security, relaxation, confidence and concentration. Serotonin converts to melatonin at night, helping with sleep patterns.