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How would you rather spend a snowy day?

happy family mother and children having fun on winter walk
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History lesson

Who said we've got SAD?

Norman Rosenthal, born in Johannesburg, South Africa, in 1948, moved to the United States in the 1970s to complete his medical residency at New York State Psychiatric Institute. After residency, he joined the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) as a researcher.

He identified and named Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) at the NIMH. He found that shorter days and reduced sunlight during winter months could trigger depressive episodes in some individuals. This discovery significantly advanced the understanding and treatment of SAD.

In addition to defining SAD, Rosenthal developed light therapy to treat the disorder. Recognizing that symptoms of SAD often improved with increased sunlight exposure, he theorized that artificial light might have a similar effect. His development of light therapy, involving exposure to bright artificial light, is now a standard SAD treatment.

Rosenthal's research also extended to other areas of mental health, including exploring the effects of botulinum toxin, or Botox, on depression. He significantly contributed to understanding and treating Bipolar Disorder as well.

He is a prolific author with several books explaining complex mental health issues in accessible language. His most well-known book, "Winter Blues," delves into SAD and provides practical advice for those suffering from the disorder.

Rosenthal retired from the NIMH but maintains an active psychiatric practice in Maryland, treating patients and conducting research. His work on SAD and his commitment to mental health care have profoundly impacted psychiatry.

Charlie, Heywise Staff

Quiz WriterCharlie, Heywise Staff

Charlie took to the written word like a fish takes to water. That is to say; they found themselves immersed in literature from before they were born. They've been known to tell their friends how they can still remember the passages their parents read to them when they were in utero - Emily Dickinson, Jane Austen, and a bit of Hunter S. Thompson thrown in to balance it out. Charlie keeps their feet wet, whether they're whipping up pithy one-liners to tease your brain or busy working on their second novel (the first one is available on Amazon under a pen name they refuse to disclose). You’re sure to get a kick out of giggle-worthy explanations and outrageous hints, and still come away feeling like you’ve just expanded your knowledge base.

Did you know?

Seasonal affective disorder lasts longer than a season

Seasonal Affective Disorder is marked by periods of fatigue, depression, changes in appetite, and difficulty sleeping. Typically affecting more women than men, science has found a correlation between the body's need for light and the lack of it during shorter days. The body's natural circadian rhythm is often interrupted and causes havoc to susceptible persons. When this happens, sleep cycles, weight loss or gain, and a feeling of hopelessness can ensure. While you might think many people can't be affected by a naturally occurring event, Seasonal Affective Disorder affects more than 5% of the population. It's on par with other joint disorders like anxiety or depression. Even though we associate Seasonal Affective Disorder with the late fall and winter months, studies have shown that it can last much longer. Most people with SAD are affected for at least 40% of the year.

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