Winter Blues: Seasonal Affective Disorder: What It Is and How to Overcome It

Rosenthal, Norman E. M.D. New York: Guilford Publications, Inc., 1993. Paperback, 325 pages.

Norman Rosenthal, M.D., is a pioneer in the study of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and director of the light studies at the National Institute of Mental Health. His expertise and his own sensitivity to seasonal variations first resulted in his 1989 classic, Seasons of the Mind. The revised edition, renamed Winter Blues, is a “must read” book for anyone interested in SAD. Dr. Rosenthal invites the reader to see what SAD is, how it affects people, and what can be done about it. The reader feels as if he or she has the benefit of expert, cutting-edge medical information along with the common-sense help and caring of a support group.

Winter Blues is written at a level useful to both the novice and the informed SAD patient. It also has practical information for family members and friends; family physicians; and the clergy, school personnel, and other helping professionals. Further, this book is an excellent introduction to affective disorders for the layperson whose interest has been piqued by the recent media focus on SDA, Prozac, and depression in general.

The first section of the book gives a detailed clinical profile that addresses the central features of SAD along with individual variations. Dr. Rosenthal presents an appealing case for placing SAD along a continuum of seasonal responses experienced by many people, a model which aids understanding of the illness and may act to lessen stigma. Particularly well explored are the somatic (bodily) complaints of fatigue/low energy, difficult morning rising, carbohydrate craving, and weight loss/gain. Also discussed is the “just leave me alone” symptom which can be so distressing to family members and friends.

Part 2, “Treatments,” explores light therapy in detail, focusing on recent developments in implementation and refinements of light-box technology. Psychotherapy and medication are discussed in a manner helpful even to treatment veterans. Most interesting to me were the chapters “Beyond Light Therapy: Other Ways to Help Yourself” and “Combining Different Types of Treatment.” These issue frequently come up in support groups and informational meetings; addressing them encourages people to work with their mental-health professionals on a personalized treatment plan for attaining the highest possible degree of functioning.

There is also a comprehensive resource section providing information ranging from where to purchase a light box; to dietary advice, menus, and recipes; to support groups. Depression self-rating scales are also included, but be careful to make sure, if you’re buying, that a browser has not already filled them in.

Winter Blues is one the best books I’ve read about mood disorders and will be a well-thumbed volume on my bookshelf.

By Lissa Falk

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