Most of us just take the news in fun when we hear that Punxsutawny Phil has once again prophesied six more weeks until winter's end. But for those who suffer with Seasonal Affective Disorder, the lack of sunshine is no laughing matter. While it was once believed that feelings of sadness and listlessness during the winter months were nothing more than cases of "cabin fever" or the "winter doldrums," we now understand that these feelings are linked to seasonal changes and fluctuations in the amount of daylight. As the amount of sunlight lessens and fall turns into winter, many SAD sufferers begin to experience feelings of depression, hopelessness, fatigue, and low motivation. Others are impacted by a reverse form of SAD as winter begins to turn to spring. These individuals experience increased anxiety, agitation, and sometimes even mania.

Many who struggle with symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder are unaware that what they are feeling is due to a type of mood disorder. As a result, they repeatedly experience cyclical depression or anxiety without understanding why. Because SAD is a form of depression, its victims experience many of the symptoms of depression. These may include loss of energy, prolonged feelings of sadness, loss of appetite, loss of interest in normal activities, and intermittent feelings of anxiety. Sufferers often sleep to avoid the feelings of hopelessness that characterize the disorder.

There are no conclusive studies about what causes Seasonal Affective Disorder. Some research suggests that it is the result of a disruption in the body's natural twenty-four hour cycle. Other studies indicate the possibility that changes in brain chemistry may cause its symptoms. SAD may be hereditary since multiple family members sometimes suffer with it.

If you believe that you may be suffering with Seasonal Affective Disorder, you can find out more about it without even leaving your home or office. The internet can offer you the quickest and most comprehensive information about the diagnosis and treatment for SAD. However, everyone has a unique situation that should be discussed with a mental health counselor or therapist that will be better able to advise you then online information only.

1. Searching online to find out about how light box therapy can simulate the natural light from the sun causing chemical changes in the brain that can positively impact SAD.
2. Using a search engine to hunt for good articles on how you can benefit from nontraditional therapies and alternative approaches such as the addition of nutritional supplements to your regular diet, increasing Vitamin D intake, or even using St. Johns' Wort.
3. Visiting "The National Mental Health Association" at http://www.nmha.org/infoctr/index.cfm for help finding online SAD support groups as well as local counselors who can provide emotional support and behavioral management for your symptoms. Those who suffer with Seasonal Affective Disorder need consistent encouragement and support in coping with recurring feelings of guilt associated with the inability to function in the ways that they have previously been accustomed to.
4. Immediate and private advice through online mental health professionals to discuss your personal situation and treatment options. View the counselors at Healthy Psychology Center to see if one can help you today.

If you are suffering with Seasonal Affective Disorder you may experience depression for several months out of every year. You owe it to yourself to find out all you can about SAD and get the help you need. Just think! If you do the research now and take the steps to get help before the seasons change again; who knows? Next year when Punxsutawny Phil sees his shadow once again, you may look like someone who swallowed a canary, as you realize that six more weeks of winter is really okay.