SAD and Addiction

Who knew there was a most depressing day of the year? Dr. Cliff Arnall, a British researcher from Cardiff University, did. He recently pinpointed Jan. 18 as 2010’s most depressing day. To arrive at this, he factored in everything from post-holiday blahs and debt to failed New Year’s resolutions and the weather.

On the bright side, that means the worst is over because if you’re reading this, you survived that dreaded day. For those suffering from the winter blahs, though, that offers little comfort. After all, depression is common throughout the bleak, cold winter months when sunlight is scarce and the fun of the holidays is a distant memory. Instead, the focus turns to finances as W-2 forms and credit card bills arrive in the mail – reminders of tax time and those Christmas spending sprees. It doesn’t help that we’re often less active at this time of year and usually battling some holiday weight gain.

For those struggling with addiction or with a past history of substance abuse, depression can make you more susceptible to relapse or increased using. This makes it even more important to stay on top of this issue, being aware of the signs of depression and taking a proactive approach to beating the seasonal blues.

Seasonal depression can be marked by:

·           A feeling of fatigue that lasts throughout the day

·           Difficulty getting out of bed in the morning

·           A craving for carbs

·           Lack of concentration

·           Reluctance to engage socially or sexually

·           Feelings of anxiety and even despair

·           Insomnia

·           Reduced appetite

·           Agitation

No matter which range of symptoms you’re experiencing, if they continue for more than two weeks, you need to consult a professional. Winter depression—technically a form Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) —tends to occur between November and April.

SAD Treatment

Light therapy is one way to help treat seasonal depression, but it needs to be used correctly so it’s important to talk to a medical professional. Nutrition and exercise play a role so making plans to be active and eat right are important. Medication and counseling may also be necessary.

If you or a family member is struggling with addiction and depression, call La Paloma at the toll-free number. Someone is there to take your call 24 hours a day and answer any questions you have about treatment, financing or insurance.