Symptoms and Overcoming Methods of Seasonal Affective Disorder
[Asia Economy Reporter Jin-kyung Lee] Spring, when flowers bloom and fresh green leaves sprout, is a lovely season, but some people find it particularly hard to endure. Those who feel unusually lethargic, depressed, lose their appetite, and constantly feel drowsy and want to lie down when spring arrives are called ‘people who experience spring fatigue.’ What exactly does the common phrase ‘experiencing spring fatigue’ mean?
● Experiencing spring fatigue?is it seasonal depression?
In Korea, the difficulty in controlling emotions and feelings of depression without any apparent reason as the season changes from winter to spring is commonly referred to as ‘spring fatigue.’ Abroad, this is called ‘spring fever,’ and it is said to occur because the body, accustomed to the long nights of winter, cannot quickly adapt to the changing daylight hours in spring, disrupting the biological clock. Experiencing spring fatigue is a form of ‘seasonal depression,’ which mainly appears during transitional seasons like spring and autumn, with symptoms often being more severe in spring than in autumn. So, what kind of disorder is seasonal depression?
● Is seasonal depression different from general depression?
Seasonal depression shows different patterns from general depression and is classified as ‘atypical depression.’ It is characterized by hypersomnia, or excessive sleeping, and increased appetite. Additionally, symptoms such as physical lethargy are observed. Unlike typical depression, which often involves insomnia and decreased appetite, seasonal depression presents contrasting symptoms. However, it is difficult to diagnose seasonal depression based solely on these symptoms, as some symptoms resemble those seen during depressive episodes in bipolar disorder. Therefore, it is necessary to visit a hospital to accurately determine whether it is bipolar disorder or seasonal depression.
● Is seasonal depression dangerous if it worsens?
The body’s rhythm, which has adapted to the low temperatures and limited daylight of winter, responds to the increased temperature and changed daylight hours in spring. At this time, the brain’s biological clock is affected, causing physical imbalances. These imbalances can lead to depression. Conversely, some people experience a sudden surge of energy due to rising hormone levels in spring, but uncontrollable excessive emotions such as depression or hyperactivity can trigger impulsive or reckless behavior. In severe cases, this can lead to extreme choices, so caution is necessary. In fact, the period with the highest suicide rates during the year is spring, from March to May, when outdoor activities increase. Rapid hormonal changes as the weather warms can cause emotional turmoil, making it easier to fall into suicidal impulses, so special care is required.
● How to overcome seasonal depression
▶ Get enough sunlight for about an hour a day
Exposing yourself to sunlight for about 1 to 2 hours a day is beneficial for overcoming seasonal depression. Exercise, in particular, provides mental and physical satisfaction and effectively reduces stress, so increasing oxygen intake through regular exercise and spending more time outdoors than usual is a good way to overcome feelings of depression. If outdoor activities are difficult, it is recommended to fully open curtains during the day or brighten indoor lighting to create a bright indoor environment.
▶ Maintain a regular lifestyle and leave no room for depression
It is important to activate the body’s metabolism by drinking about eight glasses of water a day, and maintaining a habit of light exercise or walking regularly helps prevent depression. Establishing regular lifestyle habits such as sleeping and eating at consistent times and maintaining the body’s rhythm is also known to be highly effective in preventing seasonal depression.
▶ Honestly express negative emotions and do not suppress them unconditionally
Expressing your feelings of depression honestly to those around you helps achieve psychological stability and is effective in overcoming depression. Especially when feeling depressed, rather than simply enduring it, it is important to continuously communicate with close acquaintances, honestly share your condition, and seek help.
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