New research has shown that depression in winter-time is less common of a problem than most people think.
A recently published study conducted by scientists at Oregon State University has found that the clinically-recognised issue, commonly referred to as seasonal affective disorder (SAD), is not as endemic as people think.
Lead author David Kerr and his colleagues analysed data from a sample of 762 participants asked to complete a self-survey of their feelings throughout winter.
It was found that 92 per cent reported changes in mood and behaviour depending on the seasons, although only 27 per cent said that this was problematic for them.
Jeff Shaman, one of the study’s co-authors and a Columbia University researcher, commented: “We found a very small effect during the winter months, but it was much more modest than would be expected if seasonal depression were as common as many people think it is.”
This might have a huge impact on the treatment of SAD in future patients, as doctors may be less willing to prescribe medication for this seemingly mild disorder.
