Overcoming Seasonal Affective Disorder

          It is estimated that more than half a million Americans are affected by the cold, dark days of winter.  The season of Giving is a very depressing time for some people with symptoms including fatigue, lethargy, lack of interest in previously enjoyable activities, irritability, carbohydrate cravings (easy on that pumpkin bread) and weight gain, poor concentration, and getting too much sleep.  In the summer time it is so easy to wake up early to enjoy the warmth, the sunshine, and the songs of birds.  In the winter, it is so much easier to look at the clock, say “just five more minutes” and retreat back to the warmth of the bed covers.

            Of course, the allopathic answer to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) usually includes powerful antidepressants.  These toxic drugs don’t always work the way they should and they always include quite a few negative side effects.  Would you like a side of suicidal thoughts with your antidepressant?  I always find it ironic how drugs meant to treat depression can actually cause thoughts of suicide (usually in children and teenagers).

            Homeopathic medicines can be very helpful in treating Seasonal Affective Disorder.  The remedy must be matched to the personality of the patient and the dose is not repeated as long as symptoms improve.  Only when symptoms stop improving or if they regress to the way they were before treatment began, is the dose repeated.  Coffee (not caffeine) and camphor are considered antidotes to the remedy and should be avoided for two or three days before and after treatment and for the entire length of treatment.

Homeopathic Medicines for SAD

Aurum Metallicum: This remedy is for those who suffer from extreme bouts of depression.  Aurum is prescribed to those who have been “depressed all their lives” and their depression usually worsens with the decreasing sunlight.  Aurum individuals usually resent themselves and are suicidal, they are likely to kill themselves in a suicidal attempt.  The love that these individuals received was very conditional for example, as children they were praised when they succeeded and punished (with criticism) when they failed.

Ignatia: This is a remedy for very emotional individuals who have a great fear of abandonment and rejection.  They usually dress very stylishly and go out of their way to impress others in order to win approval and affection.  Symptoms of this personality are usually triggered by a traumatic rejection or abandonment, usually in childhood or even while the individual is still in the womb.  It may sound impossible but I did consult someone like this in the past.  This traumatic rejection could be a parent abandoning the family.

            It is also recommended to go outside for a short twenty minute walk in the sun.  Yes, it is cold so be sure to bundle up.  Not only will the walking boost the blood levels of endorphins which elevate the mood, the sun will trigger the production of vitamin D.  Supplementation of vitamin D for the treatment of SAD is also recommended.