Coping with seasonal affective disorder.

• Position: Winter Blues

There are those who experience a change of moods during the winter months, particularly a sense of depression or sadness. If you are feeling under the weather but are not sure if you are the victim of seasonal affective disorder, here are the symptoms, according to life coach Diane Lang, a monthly contributor to Family Beautiful magazine, weekly columnist for MommyTalk.com, and author of Baby Steps: The Path from Motherhood to Career and Creating Balance and Finding Happiness:

* Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, isolation, and anxiety.

* Loss of energy, concentration, and motivation.

* Altered appetite and sleeping habits.

* Social withdrawal.

"Some people tend to 'hibernate' during the winter months. They do not leave their house very often. They stop socializing and enjoying daily activities. They start feeling isolated, lonely, and depressed. Watch out for this pattern," advises Lang.

"The cause of SAD is still unknown, but we know environmental factors play a role. SAD also can run in the family, and it is more common in women. Symptoms usually start in young adulthood."

There are different treatment options available for SAD and even ways to help prevent the disorder, or at least lessen its severity.

* Light therapy. 'There are certain lights you can buy called light therapy boxes, which mimic outside light and help you lift your mood and spirits."

* Psychotherapy. "A therapist can help identify negative thoughts and behaviors and help...