Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is notoriously complex to treat. It tends to kick in when late autumn’s days retreat and spring days become longer. Few SAD sufferers become depressed in winter, so light therapy is one of the traditional modes of treatment. Antidepressants and other medications that treat coexisting symptoms such as sleeplessness are a core foundation for care. Once those are in place, you may want to add supplements to your regime.

B Complex Vitamins

While B-complex vitamins can’t cure depression in those with a healthy diet, a B deficiency can cause mood disorders. No negative effects have been revealed by studies. Your doctor might suggest a simple blood test to determine whether you should add more B-complex to your intake through injections or supplements.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D levels are notoriously low in westerners, and seasonal depression that occurs in winter is a common consequence. Supplementing this nutrient gave patients in a small trial better results than phototherapy—a result that has repeated itself in studies. This is a remarkably simple, side-effect-free and economical way to treat mild SAD.

Omega 3

Omega 3 hasn’t been studied specifically in SAD, but small trials showed strong results in those with unipolar depression. Depression scores dropped by 50% within a month and no side effects were observed.

St. John’s Wort

St. John’s Wort has reduced SAD symptoms in some studies of mild depression. The herb should never be used together with ordinary antidepressants or to treat severe depression. It seems to increase serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine levels, and it works best when taken with phototherapy.

SAD is a serious mood disorder with potentially fatal consequences. Healthy Solutions wants to provide patients with the best care available by manufacturing vitamins and supplements that can add an extra layer of efficacy to therapy. Your customers deserve it.