Seasonal Affective Disorder for Dummies book review

While some may be put off by the “For Dummies” series title, I have found most to be excellent starting points. Seasonal Affective Disorder for Dummies by Laura Smith and Charles Elliot is where I would suggest you begin if you have questions or interest in Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). It references up to date research in a practical, readable manner. It is very well organized and written.

While there is a very good chapter on Light Therapy, what I appreciate most is that most of the book addresses other interventions. What is known to date, is that effective treatments for depression are effective treatments for SAD. Another thing I like is how the authors give examples of negative thoughts in various chapters, followed by healthier thinking. Many will see their own negative thoughts and then see how they can begin to change it to healthier thinking.

If SAD is an issue for you, I highly recommend Seasonal Affective Disorder for Dummies.

Happy Holidays,

Mike

http://drmikemiller.com/sad.html

Winter Blues book review

Winter Blues (Revised 2006) by Norman Rosenthal, MD is THE classic book on Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Rosenthal started his psychiatric career as a research fellow at the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) and was one of the original researchers. In this addition, he also references his own experiences with SAD and what has been helpful to himself.

While the main thrust is on Light Therapy (LT), he also gives full and balanced discussion to other researched interventions, i.e., medications, psychotherapy (especially Cognitive Behavioral Therapy – CBT), negative ions, exercise, vitamins, etc. I appreciate that Dr. Rosenthal is not afraid to give his own opinions to questions about LT, after giving what is known through research.

Overall, it is important to know that SAD is very treatable for most people, whether with LT and/or with other interventions.

Winter Blues is well written and practical, doing an excellent job in referencing scientific studies in understandable language. Recommended for anyone with concerns about possible SAD issues.