The pooled results of 40 SAD studies show that the disorder affects women more often than men. This could be due to sex differences in the body's response to certain climates and regions. The average age at which SAD begins is about 23 years. The risk of getting SAD seems to decrease with age. Therapy for SAD includes the traditional treatments for major depressive disorder, but there are other treatment options, too.
Light therapy is a unique and effective treatment for winter depression.
Less is known about the treatment of summer depression, but many clinicians agree it seems to involve a problem with heat regulation, not sensitivity to light. SAD includes only major depressive episodes that follow a specific seasonal pattern and disappear during the winter or summer months. Women's Health Interactive, All Rights Reserved.