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COLUMBUS, Ohio - It’s winter, which means the days are shorter, temperatures are much colder and there is a lot less sunlight. These factors can have an adverse effect on the mental health of some Ohioans - it’s called Seasonal Affective Disorder (or SAD), and it’s more common than you may think, says Dr. Michael McKee, a clinical and health psychologist at the Cleveland Clinic.
About six percent of the state’s residents suffer from the mood disorder, and McKee says the symptoms can be debilitating for some.
“You want to sleep all the time, you crave carbohydrates: that chocolate looks better than ever. You withdraw from people, you lose sexual interest, and you have all of the other characteristics of depression, you feel sad, feel blue.”
Dr. McKee says the most important thing is to take care of yourself if you are prone to this type of depression. There are various treatments available such as medications, talk and group therapy and light therapies. He adds that you should be sure to notify your doctor about any symptoms you may be experiencing.
Dr. McKee says if you feel you have minor symptoms of SAD, there are a few simple things you can do to brighten your mood.
“Get away; go somewhere where it’s sunny for a week; that seems to help. Get light, uncover the windows, sit by the windows or go outside. Get out of bed and get moving and get with other people,” he said.
Another tip is to avoid alcohol, which McKee says can only make things worse.
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