Shedding Light on Seasonal Affective Disorder: Understanding, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Beaumont, Michigan - Date: February 3, 2024

In the latest episode of the Beaumont House Call podcast, Dr. Nick Gilpin delves into the often-overlooked realm of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), shedding light on its symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options. Broadcasting from Beaumont, the podcast addresses the challenges that the Michigan late autumn brings and how it can affect individuals worldwide.

Dr. Gilpin sets the stage by painting a vivid picture of the shorter days, dwindling daylight, and the ensuing disruption of the circadian rhythm during late autumn. The doctor introduces the term "winter blues" and guides listeners through the distinct characteristics of SAD, emphasizing that it extends beyond a mere dip in mood.

His guest for the episode is Dr. Shelly Jaffrey, a board-certified family medicine physician affiliated with Beaumont and an assistant professor at the Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine. Dr. Jaffrey, named the Michigan Academy of Family Physicians Educator of the Year in 2016, brings a wealth of expertise to the discussion.

The conversation unfolds in a structured manner, covering key areas related to SAD. Dr. Jaffrey provides insights into the prevalence of SAD, citing studies that estimate the lifetime occurrence of the disorder between 1 and 3%. Despite the seemingly low percentage, this translates to hundreds of thousands to millions of affected individuals in the United States alone.

The podcast then navigates through the clinical aspects of SAD, differentiating it from general winter blues or other forms of depression. Dr. Jaffrey highlights the importance of recognizing social withdrawal, changes in appetite, and alterations in sleep patterns as potential indicators of SAD.

Moving to the diagnostic phase, the discussion explores how healthcare providers utilize screening tools like the Seasonal Pattern Assessment Questionnaire. Dr. Jaffrey stresses the significance of consulting a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis, steering away from self-diagnosis through online resources.

The podcast shifts gears to discuss potential causes of SAD, including the role of circadian rhythm, neurotransmitters like serotonin, and the impact of sunlight on melatonin and vitamin D levels. Dr. Jaffrey points out that factors such as geographical location and gender play a role in susceptibility, with women being four times more likely to experience SAD than men.

As the conversation progresses, Dr. Gilpin and Dr. Jaffrey explore various treatment modalities for SAD. The trio of light therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and supplementation with vitamin D takes center stage. Dr. Jaffrey provides a detailed explanation of light therapy, its benefits, and the importance of using specialized lamps that filter out harmful UV light.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy is introduced as a valuable tool for identifying and addressing negative thought patterns associated with SAD. Dr. Jaffrey emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach, including dietary supplements and consideration of underlying medical conditions.

Antidepressants, while discussed as a treatment option, are positioned as a case-dependent measure. Dr. Jaffrey explains the importance of tailoring the treatment plan to the individual patient, considering factors such as severity and responsiveness to different interventions.

The episode concludes with a heartfelt plea from Dr. Jaffrey to those who may be struggling with SAD or having thoughts of suicide. Urging listeners to reach out to friends, family, or medical professionals, she emphasizes the importance of seeking help and reassures individuals that they are not alone in their struggles.

In closing, Dr. Gilpin and Dr. Jaffrey provide listeners with a list of reputable resources, urging them to approach mental health information with caution and to consult trustworthy sources.

As the podcast episode draws to an end, Dr. Gilpin leaves listeners with a healthy thought, encouraging them to recognize the signs of SAD and take proactive steps towards a smarter and healthier life.

For those interested in further information, the Beaumont House Call podcast offers an email address, [email protected], for submitting questions and accessing additional resources.

Dr. Nick Gilpin and Dr. Shelly Jaffrey's collaborative effort on the Beaumont House Call podcast serves as a beacon of hope, illuminating the path towards understanding, managing, and overcoming Seasonal Affective Disorder.