Sunshine -- in moderate amounts -- is good for you. Studies suggests that sunlight stimulates the body's circulation of vitamin D, which alters levels of serotonin in the brain, thereby affecting your mood. That's why seasonal depression, sometimes known at seasonal affective disorder, occurs most frequently in winter months when days are short and sunshine scarce. Some research now shows that supplemental doses of vitamin D can help fight the winter blues.
Significance
Like the name suggests, the symptoms of seasonal depression occur cyclically, most commonly during winter months. While symptoms offer clues to aid in diagnosis, not everyone suffering from seasonal depression experiences it the same way. Signs of seasonal depression to watch for include change in appetite, weight gain, fatigue, increased sleep, irritability, anxiety, avoidance of social situations, persistent thoughts of death or suicide, and the inability to find pleasure in activities you usually enjoy
Causes
The definitive causes of seasonal depression remain unclear. However, as with other mental health issues, age, genetics, and individual body chemistry all play a role in the development of the disorder.
The Mayo Clinic hypothesizes that a disruption of the circadian rhythm or body clock can contribute to depression, as can an imbalance in melatonin and serotonin levels linked to a deficiencies in vitamin D.
Research
Studies examining the connection between vitamin D and seasonal depression have produced mixed conclusions.
Boston.com reports that there's no benefit of taking vitamin D for SAD. However, Joseph J. Gallo of the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine observed large doses of vitamin D to be more effective than light therapy in treating seasonal sadness.
Treatment
Light therapy, or exposure to artificial sunlight, can boost the body's production vitamin D. In addition, vitamin D taken as a supplement in sufficient doses helps increase serotonin levels, which can brighten your mood.
Natural sources of vitamin D including milk, orange juice, sardines, salmon, marckerel, tuna, artichokes, kale and raw broccoli are particularly high in vitamin D.
And sun exposure with adequate UV protection in winter, even on cold and overcast days, can help fight the symptoms of seasonal depression. Just a walk in the park can do wonders in warding off the winter blues.
Considerations
Don't treat seasonal depression on your own. Depression is a serious medical condition that should be monitored by a health care professional.
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