If you suffer from depression on those days when the sun doesn't shine and the sky is full of dark, low cloud, you probably suffer from seasonal affective disorder. This condition which is caused by lack of sunlight coming in at eye affects sufferers to varying degrees and is predominant in the northern hemisphere.
There are two different types of S.A.D. and both are related to the seasons. The most common form occurs throughout the winter on days when there is no sunshine. Another, less common form affects sufferers in the summer when it rains a lot and the sun doesn't come out. Some people have a combination of both.
Some people may suffer from mild depression and a general feeling of low energy while others exhibit very severe depressive symptoms including tiredness, lethargy, lack of appetite (or the reverse), feeling of low self worth and low self esteem. This condition can get so bad that medication is needed.
Mild cases will respond to light from specially constructed boxes that emulate the way the sun shines in through the eye and trick the brain into believing the sun is shining. Changes in diet including the addition of so called sunshine fruits like oranges and lemon, apricots and peaches can also be of help.
There are several herbal preparations that may help to relieve symptoms in some people. The first is St. John's Wort which is a wild herb containing hypericin and hyperforin. These natural chemicals are believed to be the active part of the herb that can lift depression in some people. There have been extensive trials of this preparation all over the world in the past twenty years and it is generally thought to be a useful alternative to prescription drugs in the treatment of mild to moderate S.A.D.
St. John's Wort doesn't suit everyone. It should not be taken with other drugs, prescription, or otherwise, without consulting a doctor, or pharmacist. (This includes oral contraceptive pills too.)
It is not suitable for children, or during pregnancy. These precaution apply to most preparations of his type but St. John's Wort may also cause insomnia and restlessness in some people.
There is another preparation that has similar properties. 5-HTP Serotonin Tonic is a plant extract taken from the West African griffonia somplicifolia tree. It is a natural source of 5-hydroxy-tryptophan (5-HTP). This is a chemical made in the body and converted into serotonin, a brain chemical messenger. Low serotonin levels are believed to be the cause of S.A D. and other non reactive depressions. Taking a supplement of 5-HTP can help to lift mood, reduce stress and assist restful sleep.
St. John's Wort and 5-HTP can be taken together, one in the morning and one at night. Different combinations will be effective for different people.
These are ways of treating S.A.D without the need to visit a doctor but they will not be effective for everyone. If you feel that you are suffering from this complaint and these suggestions don't help, then stronger medication is available on prescription from a doctor.
Taking supplements and pills, changing diet and trying to stay positive will all help to alleviate S.A.D but the only certain cure is a few weeks in the sun.
The best cure is to go away for a few months to somewhere that's sunny and hot.
