Winter Depression Research Clinic
Mission
To study the pathophysiology of seasonal mood changes and to develop new more effective and efficient treatments.
What is Winter Depression?
Winter Depression or Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is an illness that affects people's mood and behaviors. The symptoms of SAD usually begin to appear gradually throughout September and October and last through March or April. Research suggests that SAD may affect as many as 11 million people in the United States. Up to four times as many women suffer from SAD as men, and it tends to run in families. Geographic location also plays a role in the likelihood of the occurrence of SAD. Those who live in Canada and the northern United States are up to eight times more likely to suffer from SAD than people living in sunny areas such as Florida and Mexico.
Signs and Symptoms of Winter Depression
Like all illnesses it is associated with specific symptoms. These symptoms are largely absent in the late spring and summer months:
- depressed mood and fatigue
- carbohydrate cravings, especially for sweets and/or starches
- increased appetite and/or weight gain
- oversleeping or difficulty awakening in the morning
- reduced work productivity
- withdrawal from social contacts
Who is eligible?
We are seeking individuals with SAD who wish to participate in clinical trials of new treatments. If you are interested in participating, please contact us after September 15 at the number below.
Yale Faculty
Contact Us
For more information about the clinic and our research programs, please call 203-785-2088.
Location
Yale-New Haven Hospital
20 York St CB2039
New Haven, CT 06510
