SAD and Happy Lights

It appears to be common in populations living far from the equator; so as Pacific Northwest residents, it’s important we be aware of this difficult, yet treatable, disorder. Experiencing SAD can make Fall and Winter Quarter extra challenging. So in order to take care of ourselves and break down the sigma surrounding mental illness, let’s learn a little more about Seasonal Affective Disorder!

The specific, scientific cause of SAD is still unknown but researchers believe your biological clock, serotonin levels, and melatonin levels all play a role in this disorder.

• Your biological clock: the seasonal decrease in sunlight may be disrupting your circadian rhythm, also known as your biological clock.
• Serotonin: a decrease in this neurotransmitter related to mood, might also contribute to the on-set of SAD.
• Melatonin: this hormone’s levels can be disrupted by season changes and because it plays a role in sleep patterns and mood, it might also relate to SAD.

If this is something that you think you might be living with, don’t fret! You are not alone in your struggle to move through the winter months in a healthy way and you can feel better. Here at Seattle U, treatment is accessible for students with a visit to the comfy and welcoming HAWC office in Student Center 380.

HAWC offers the most widely known treatment for SAD: light therapy (phototherapy). By sitting close to this special “happy light” the light emitted mimics the natural light we miss during dark PNW winters and helps to change chemicals in the brain linked to mood. Regular sessions in front of a “happy light” can produce positive results in a week or two.

If you feel you need more support, Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) offers individual therapy sessions and group therapy. They are located in the Pigott Pavilion for Leadership in room 120.