A look at Seasonal Affective Disorder Pittsburgh PA

On Saturday, the groundhog holds more than the fate of the seasons in his little claws. Whether the critter sees his shadow also can predict your mood for the next month and a half.

If Punxsutawney Phil, or your preferred local groundhog, sees his shadow, we’re in for six more weeks of winter. Which means those cabin-fever blahs are more likely to stick around.

Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, is a legitimate affliction from which many people often don’t know they’re suffering. Common symptoms include fatigue, craving carbohydrates and increased irritability, and it kicks in around the time that the days get shorter and the weather gets colder.

Of course, with those symptoms, it’s hard to tell whether you’re legitimately SAD or just cold and grouchy.

Vicki Tronc, director of mental health at SwedishAmerican Health Systems, said being cranky and antisocial this time of year doesn’t necessarily mean you have SAD. It becomes a problem when you find, for example, that you can’t get out of bed or do simple, everyday tasks. SAD can take two years to formally diagnose, and it is two to four times more likely to affect women.

Although SAD can be treated with antidepressants and therapy, some of the more common treatments include simple things such as getting more light and being more social.

So, if you find yourself sniping at your friends or only wanting to curl up on the couch with a bag of chips, SAD or not, it’s best if you find a way to snap out of it. Here are some easy tips, courtesy of the Mayo Clinic, to help you make it through the next couple of months:

Stick to your treatment plan. If you’re taking medication or undergoing therapy, keep your scheduled appointments.

Get plenty of light at home. Open blinds or trim tree branches that might block sunlight.

Get out. Get outdoors on sunny days, even if it’s chilly. Take a long walk, eat lunch at a nearby park or simply sit on a bench and soak up the sun.

Exercise regularly. It helps relieve stress and anxiety.

Take care of yourself. Get enough rest, eat a balanced diet and relax.

Practice stress management. Unmanaged stress can lead to depression, overeating and other unhealthy behaviors.

Socialize. Stay connected with people you enjoy being around.

Take a trip. If possible, take winter vacations in sunny, warm locations.

Rockford Register Star