Just been diagnosed with SAD

HI,

I'm new to this board but I must say it's a great find.

I've just been diagnosed with SAD by my GP ( although there was an element of self-diagnosis I suppose)
and have been signed off work for the past 2 weeks , which is a relief. I've got to go back to see my GP tomorrow but I am feeling dreadful still and can't face work. All I seem to want to do is stay inside and want not to have to face anything or anyone. Does anyone else have these feelings ?

By far and away the worst thing I am experiencing though is extreme irritability. I have a lovely 3 year old daughter but I am finding myself increasingly impatient and snappy and interacting with her is almost a chore.


Had to go to the supermarket yesterday and ended up continuously being wound up by other people, normally for something trivial. Are these normal symptoms of SAD ?

I refused the offer of anti-depressants but I am considering a light box. Can anyone recommend anywhere where I can get a free trial ? I'm skint and don't want to fork out £200 to find it doesn't work.

It's also a relief to know that I am not the only one with this affliction.

Any thoughts help re the above appreciated.

Hi Shaunnie,
I'm glad you'v found this forum, I know I was greatly relieved when I found it. Welcome, :)
I don't know if the irritability is "normal" for saddies but I know I suffer with it. I'm constantly aware of trying to control myself so I don't snap at people, often at trivial things. I'v learnt to step back from situations rather than say something I may regret, not always easy though :roll:
Take care
Cazjenson

Hi Shaunnie and welcome to the site. I have suffered with SAD for about 20years and it wasn't until 4 years ago that I started using a light box. They are extremely expensive but very much worth the money if they work for you.

Like Linda says, you can have a trial and if it does work for you maybe you could opt for the brite spark box. This is approx £110 and is the one I have got. I have had four years out of it which equates to about £30 a year, it doesn't sound as bad when you think of it like that.

I know it's a big outlay at first but maybe if you have a birthday or something coming up you could ask if all your friends and family clubbed together to get one for you instead of the obligitory smellies we usually get. I am sure they wont mind if they know it is going to do your health some good.

Unfortunately don't expect miracles from the lightbox as it needs to be started by about September before the proper onset of your symptoms to give you the most benefit. But at least you can be prepared for next winter and everything to hand to assist you.

Take care

Thanks guys.


Think the trick will be to get one before next Sept. Back @work Thursday. Just hope I can get thru April unscathed.