Light Therapy Tip for the week:
Who is at risk for Seasonal Affective Disorder?
Many Seasonal Affective Disorder sufferers might wonder why they are affected by this disorder. Although many people do develop this condition, some are more at risk than others for being diagnosed with SAD. It can depend on your sex, geographic location and genetics. SAD can affect adults, teens and even children.
According to research, more females are diagnosed with SAD than males. This does not mean that men do not get SAD. It simply means, development of SAD is more rare in men. However, if a male does develop SAD, studies indicate their symptoms will be worse.
Where you live also influences how likely you are to develop SAD because development of the disease depends on sunlight and weather. One study on SAD found the rate of people affected was seven times higher in New Hampshire than Florida. SAD appears to be more common among people who live far north or south of the equator.
All mental illnesses usually involve some sort of family history. As with other types of depression, studies do show if SAD runs in the family, than you are more likely to develop the disease than someone who does not have relatives with the condition.
If you think you suffer from SAD talk with your physician. If you’ve been diagnosed, check out our website for more information at alaskanorthernlights.com.