Cabin Fever or Seasonal Affective Disorder?

2 mins read
Penn Whiteside, PMHNP-BC
Penn Whiteside, PMHNP-BC

In this seemingly endless Maine winter, it is easy to have cabin fever and feel frustrated with the freezing cold temperatures and weekly snowfall forecasts. When cabin fever becomes a seasonal occurrence that is accompanied by bouts of depression, however, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) may be the cause.

SAD most often starts in the fall and continues through winter and is a form of depression.

“Seasonal Affective Disorder is characterized by changes in sleep and appetite, sluggishness, depressed mood, pessimism, decreased enjoyment in activities that are usually enjoyable, and lack of motivation,” said Penn Whiteside, a psychiatric nurse practitioner from Dr. David Rice’s office in Farmington. “It is a depressive disorder with that comes and goes with the change of seasons. It has been shown that rates of this seasonal disorder are statistically higher in Northern regions like Maine compared to regions in the South. Women are more susceptible to SAD but men certainly get it too. Theories of its cause are centered on the production of melatonin and exposure to sunlight – which of course becomes more limited in the winter season.”

According to Whiteside, people should consider getting help if depression is interfering with day to day functioning or activities, or if others have noticed behavioral changes. People should talk to their primary care doctor and seek a psychiatric evaluation. Treatment options for Seasonal Affective Disorder include using a light box (which can be prescribed), counseling, and medication. Diet and exercise are also important, as getting outside in the winter sunlight can help.

“Depression is a chemical imbalance which should be considered for treatment like any other disease or medical condition,” Whiteside said. “It is important to remember there is help available, whether it is counselling, medication, light therapy, or a combination.”

Penn Whiteside is a psychiatric nurse practitioner who offers medication management, psychiatric evaluation and treatment for adult patients as a member of the Farmington practice of David Rice, MD. Appointments can be made by calling 207-860-4090.

Print Friendly, PDF & Email

4 Comments

  1. There used to be a light box that one could use at Mantor Library — I haven’t seen it in awhile and wonder whether it got mothballed.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.