Feeling SAD? Persistent chill could be reason, say Bengaluru doctors

BENGALURU: Feeling gloomy, getting teary-eyed or procrastinating this time of the year? The weather could be the reason behind what is called seasonal affective disorder (SAD), city doctors said, confirming that they are seeing many such cases. SAD, according to doctors, is a depressive condition that makes one dread getting out of bed and feel a general lack of energy, but unlike depression it is linked to the weather. In some cases, one’s genes or even hormonal changes could determine susceptibility to SAD. Dr Shradha Shejekar, consultant-psychiatry, Aster RV Hospital, opined that women in their 20s and 30s are prone to SAD and more so if they have a genetic constitution of disturbed levels of vitamin D, serotonin and melatonin. Low mood prompted by SAD is seen among the elderly too. Dr Raghu K, chief psychiatrist, BGS Gleneagles Global Hospital, said the elder population being more prone to SAD could be because of a less active life and their choice to stay indoors. He noted that just 1-2% have severe SAD, which is diagnosed and treated as depression. Dr Raghu observed that of every 60-80 patients with depression he sees, 1-2 are cases of SAD. Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) psychiatrist Dr Vikram agreed that SAD is a common phenomenon in the winter. “It’s similar to depression but in a milder form, with people being in a low mood, tired and losing interest in activities that they earlier enjoyed,” he said. He, however, has been seeing the phenomenon more in adolescents and early adults who have a chemical disturbance in their body affecting them as well. Doctors said lifestyle changes can help individuals with mild levels of SAD, like sleeping and waking up in time, having a routine, and getting adequate sunlight and exercise. However, those with moderate to severe SAD, who have their serotonin levels plummeting, are usually given medication. Meanwhile, Dr Shejekar suggested that the year-end celebrations may have done some people good, helping them break out of their low mood. Dr Manamohan N, psychiatrist and mental health professional, Sagar Hospitals, said two of every 10 patients he sees during winter come with SAD. He said people don’t wake up early during winter. He has seen adolescents and young adults susceptible to SAD due to hormonal fluctuations. Smoking, consumption of alcohol and use of substances can trigger mood-related issues, he added. Doctors agree that about 1% of the general population could be facing this problem but they are less likely to be diagnosed as SAD, as the symptoms are akin to depression. However, SAD is not just a winter phenomenon. While the disorder can cause a depression-like state, it can also render people hypomanic — restless and energetic.