Current perspectives on the management of seasonal affective disorder

To concisely review the etiology and current treatment modalities of seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

A MEDLINE search (1966-1999) was performed using the search term "seasonal affective disorder." The search was subsequently focused to "drug therapy" with limits of human studies and English-language papers. The search term "light therapy" was combined with "seasonal affective disorder."

Articles discussing the epidemiology and treatment of SAD were independently examined by each author. Additional literature was reviewed from selected references identified by the original articles.

SAD most likely results from a deficiency in serotonin. Light therapy remains the therapeutic intervention with the most experience and success. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) have also shown benefit in treating the disorder.

SAD is an important subtype of major depressive disorder. Clinicians should remain vigilant for signs and symptoms of the illness. Successful treatment may include light therapy or antidepressants, particularly SSRIs.