Main description:

A 'landmark book.'--The New York Times
*When the dark days of winter approach, do you feel sluggish and slow? Is it a struggle to get out of bed each morning?
*Do you have difficulty focusing at work or in relationships, feel down in the dumps, or, worse still, get really depressed?
*Does it get harder than ever to stick to a healthy diet and control your weight?

If you answered yes to one or more of these questions, you may be one of the millions of people who suffer from seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Picking up this book is the first step toward feeling more energized, productive, and alive--all year long. Dr. Norman E. Rosenthal's engaging, compassionate style and rich store of scientific wisdom have made this trusted guide a perennial bestseller. Dr. Rosenthal explains how to evaluate your own level of seasonality, get the most out of light boxes and other effective self-help options, and make informed decisions about antidepressants and psychotherapy. The thoroughly updated fourth edition features a new chapter on different meditation practices and their benefits. Packed with information and insights, this is a tried-and-true survival kit for weathering the winter blues.

See also Dr. Rosenthal's Winter Blues Survival Guide, a step-by-step workbook that helps you craft a customized SAD treatment plan.

Contents:

Introduction I. Seasonal Syndromes 1. Discovering SAD 2. All about SAD 3. How Seasonal Are You? 4. What Causes SAD? 5. SAD in Children and Adolescents 6. "Summer SAD" and Other Seasonal Afflictions II. Treatments 7. Light Therapy 8. Beyond Light Therapy: Other Ways to Help Yourself 9. Psychotherapy and SAD 10. Antidepressant Medications 11. Meditation for SAD 12. A Step-by-Step Guide through the Revolving Year 13. "How Can I Help?": Advice for Family and Friends III. Celebrating the Seasons 14. A Brief History of Seasonal Time 15. Polar Tales 16. Creating with the Seasons 17. Winter Light: Life beyond SAD IV. Resources Websites of Interest Where to Obtain Light Fixtures and Other Devices Support Groups Further Reading Appendix A. Daily Mood Log Appendix B. Core Belief Worksheet