CELC Column SAD

"What's Pastor Holley Thinking?"

November 8, 2004

Today I am thinking about SAD. Before you laugh, it is something very real and very challenging to some people. I write about it because you or someone you know may suffer from it.

Lots of folks have the “winter blues” when the days are short, dark and cold. You may be feeling a bit “down” in the middle of winter. If you have severe symptoms, though, you may have what is called “SAD” or “Seasonal Affective Disorder.”

From the information I have the symptoms run like this: feeling depressed, fatigue, difficulty sleeping, and food cravings. This disorder is more likely to hit younger people and women in particular.

You can’t “cure” SAD, but it is treatable. Light therapy is one approach. Medication is another. Further, sessions with a counselor might help. The best advice I have for you if SAD is a challenge to you is to see your doctor.

In these days of “holidaze” that I often refer to as “Hallowthankmasyear,” there is the stretch of one celebration after another where you are supposed to feel happy and “up.” To me this just makes SAD all the more difficult for many people. They are not feeling well to start with, and then the added pressure of “Hallowthankmasyear” just makes it all the more difficult.

I would suggest to everyone that we make sure we have and are keeping good relationships with others. Now is a very important part of the year to remain in touch with your sisters and brothers in Christ. Pray with them and for them. Talk to at least one of them daily, preferably in person. Make sure to be with us each Sunday at worship. Doing these kinds of faith contacts will always help keep you connected to God and one another. It will make a difference.

- Pastor Holley