Seasonal depression, also called seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, is a condition initiated with symptoms at the first signs of winter. According to Peace Health, anyone can develop seasonal depression, however it is more common in the Northern states and other geographical areas with extremely cold, dark wintry conditions. Symptoms include feelings of sadness, hopelessness, suicidal thoughts, lethargy, disordered sleep, carbohydrate cravings, overeating and weight gain.
Exposure to Sunlight
Sunlight, either the real thing or artificial, can be tremendously helpful for seasonal depression sufferers. Yet in cold and dark climates, getting adequate amounts can be difficult. In many instances, individuals living in colder climates simply cannot get enough vitamin D due to less sun exposure. The Vitamin D Council posits that warnings related to skin cancer and the promotion of protection from ultraviolet rays may be contributing to an overall rise in vitamin D-related deficiencies and some chronic illnesses.
Vitamin D Supplementation
Vitamin D supplementation may be beneficial to those with seasonal depression. These individuals may experience elevated moods, thanks to the elevating effects vitamin D can have on increasing serotonin in the brain. As always, it is imperative to consult with a licensed medical professional prior to the attempt to self-medicate. There may be contraindications with medications you are taking, and required supplement amounts can be determined with a simple blood test by your doctor.
How Much Vitamin D is Safe?
Vitamin D has a high safety profile, but any supplement can be dangerous if used in mega-doses. Mega-dosing is a term used for taking extremely large quantities of a vitamin or mineral, usually to prevent or stave off chronic diseases like cancer. As this relates to seasonal depression, some proponents of vitamin D suggest taking doses starting at 10,000 to 50,000 international units (I.U.) or more per day. The National Institutes of Health's Office of Dietary Supplements reports that healthy adults can take up to 4,000 I.U. per day. Dr. Jeffrey Dach, M.D., a member of the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine, says he prescribes 5,000 I.U. per day for patients, but he recommends that your physician should do blood work to monitor your serum 25-Hydroxy Vitamin D levels.
Side Effects from Vitamin D Supplements
Individuals with high blood calcium or phosphorous levels, heart conditions or kidney disease should consult with their physician before taking vitamin D supplements for seasonal depression. The University of Maryland Medical Center lists known side effects related to vitamin D supplements to include excessive thirst and urgency to urinate, a metallic taste in the mouth, lack of appetite and weight loss, bone pain, itchy skin, sore eyes, gastrointestinal upset and muscle problems. However, there are no known side effects to obtaining vitamin D through dietary sources.
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