A really great intro to SAD. ( )

Apparently, the author of Winter Blues was involved in the ground-breaking research which first documented and defined the impact of seasonal changes upon mood --Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), commonly referred to as "the winter blues," though some people actually have difficulty with summer -- and how light therapy and other treatments can be of help. The book helps to define what it is and offers tips on dealing with it: do it yourself strategies for those with mild cases, and what can be done with professional help for those more seriously afflicted. My own mild "winter blues" do not rise (or, rather, sink) nearly to the level of full-scale SAD which, in it's full-blown form, can be truly incapacitating.

The book also offers interesting historical and even literary examples of how the seasons have impacted people over the centuries. It seems well-written and comprehensive. There is even a section with recipes designed to help beat the "carb cravings" many people with SAD crave.

I'm a little skeptical -- I understand and accept what he says about the physical impact of light/lack thereof upon the human organism; but I do think he downplays the ordinary psychological impact of a season where the weather keeps people from doing so many things they enjoy doing. ( )

Surprised that no-one else on LT has this book. Does anyone else out there suffer from SAD? This is a very comprehensive look at the research history, trends and strategies for coping with the condition and should be read by anyone who suffers from it, or has a member of their family or loved one who does.