Shedding Some Light on Seasonal Affective Disorder

Our bodies contain an inner clock that helps to regulate hormones and biochemistry. This clock is referred to as the circadian rhythm. The fine timing of this biological rhythm requires signaling from light. With the change in seasons, many of us feel the systemic effects of less daylight in various ways, one of which is altered mood. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that correlates with seasonal patterns.

In today’s episode, we discuss the biochemistry of how light regulates the circadian rhythm, the etiologies of seasonal affective disorder, and various treatment strategies which have been used to improve symptoms.

 

Today on The Lab Report:

• 2:15 The circadian rhythm and chronobiology – defining terms
• 5:00 Light signals and hormonal regulation of the biological clock
• 7:25 Health implications of seasonal change
• 9:30 Seasonal Affective Disorder
• 13:45 Vitamin D – What does it do?
• 18:10 Therapeutics and interventions
• 21:00 Question of the Day:
  • Can seasonal affective disorder happen in the summer?

 

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