Recognizing Seasonal Affective Disorder

Each year as the weather turns cold and the skies turn gray, so does the mood of many people who suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). SAD is a form of depression that is brought on by seasonal conditions, most commonly during the winter months.

SAD can affect anyone—adult or adolescent, man or woman—but like other forms of depression, it occurs more often in women than in men.

Symptoms of SAD include:

• Depressive symptoms that coincide with a seasonal change (usually the beginning of fall or winter)
• Full remissions that also occur at a characteristic time of year (e.g., depression disappears in the spring)
• Loss of interest in work or everyday activities
• Withdrawal from social activities
• Cravings for carbohydrates
• Weight gain resulting from heartier appetite
• Decreased energy level
• The need for more sleep, particularly during the day

Some experts believe that a variety of factors, including hormone levels, body temperatures and light (or the lack of it), contribute to the disorder.

Others attribute SAD solely to the shorter days and decreased daylight in fall and winter, which can cause a drop in serotonin levels, resulting in mood and behavioral changes.

For most people with SAD, symptoms become less severe and eventually disappear with the arrival of spring. In severe cases, however, treatment may be recommended.

If you have a TRICARE beneficiary who exhibits symptoms of SAD, or any other type of depression, and you believe the symptoms would be alleviated by seeing a behavioral health provider, the beneficiary may self-refer for the first eight behavioral health outpatient visits per fiscal year (Oct. 1–Sept. 30) from a network provider. Note: Active duty service members must have a referral and prior authorization before seeking any behavioral health care outside of a military treatment facility.

TRICARE behavioral health providers can be identified by visiting www.triwest.com and clicking on "Find a Provider."

For more information on depression, visit the Behavioral Health Portal on the TriWest Web site: Go to www.triwest.com, click on "Provider," then "Behavioral Health." If you have questions, call TriWest at 1-888-TRIWEST (1-888-874-9378).