In Context: 5 Web Perspectives On A Story In The News

SAD more serious than “winter blues”

(The Independent) In October, daylight hours grow shorter and people become more susceptible to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a common condition that gives sufferers the same symptoms as depression. These symptoms may include prolonged sadness, change of appetite, weight gain, energy loss and guilty feelings, says Jessica Garibay of the UK's National Depressive and Manic Depressive Association. In severe cases, sufferers of SAD may need to take anti-depressants or be hospitalized. The Seasonal Affective Disorder organization attributes SAD to hours spent inside in artificial lighting, squinting at computer screens.

1.

Advocating for SAD sufferers

Canadian Mental Health Association
The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) says two to three percent of Canadians suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder, while 15 per cent suffer from "the winter blues." This website, managed by the social advocacy group, lists symptoms of SAD, says who is at risk, and gives a clear, concise analysis of available treatments. It also explains different types of depression. The CMHA is one of the oldest voluntary organizations in Canada that aims to bring attention to mental health conditions and provide resources for those who suffer from mental illness. The website also includes a map that lists CMHA locations across Canada. The site is well maintained and user-friendly. However, the CMHA site is not a substitute for professional advice.

2.

Why do people suffer from SAD?

Mind
Similar to the CMHA, this website gives solutions and symptoms, but it also tells the reader why people might suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder. In a PDF booklet, Mind offers an in-depth look at SAD, plus additional online resources. This organization publishes information about mental health including diagnosis and conditions, treatments, and mental illness statistics.

3.

Bright light therapy and physical exercise may help

SAD study
This 2004 study from researchers in Helsinki, Finland, tested three groups of people with light therapy or physical exercise and found that light therapy had a significant effect on sufferers of Seasonal Affective Disorder. Forty-two of 98 subjects responded well to light therapy. The study also gives good background information about the disorder. Access to the study is provided through PubMed Central, the US National Institutes of Health (NIH) free digital archive. NIH is a US federal agency, part of the US Department of Health and Human Services.

4.

Online support forum

Mood Disorders Canada
The Mood Disorders Society of Canada (MDSC) has an online forum that allows SAD sufferers to post their day-to-day feelings or personal struggles, and to respond to others' posts. This online community lets Canadians remain anonymous while still providing a support network. On the home page, MDSC describes the Elephant in the Room campaign, which asks people with mental illness to display a small blue elephant on their car or desk to signify a stigma-free zone. The social stigma surrounding mental illness can often be worse than the illness itself, the society says. MDSC is a national non-profit organization that aims to give a voice to those who suffer from mental disorders such as depression and bipolar illness.

5.

Here Comes The Sun

YouTube
What could put anyone in a better mood than watching George Harrison, Ringo Starr, Elton John, Phil Collins and Eric Clapton play "Here Comes the Sun" live? So long, "winter blues"!