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Updated: 10:37 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 29, 2011 | Posted: 5:37 p.m. Friday, Jan. 28, 2011
OHIO VALLEY —
Seasonal affective disorder, also known as SAD, is basically a condition driven by daylight that overlays a pre-existing state of depression.
People with the disorder will be more down in the winter for no apparent reason, and perk up as sunlight increases in the summer.
"People tend to think of themselves as part of the team, you know they see we," said psychologist Dr. Donna Murray.
People associate with the team, and get on their garb, cheering on the Steelers as though they're right there on the sideline. However, that is not a permanent cure.
"It might be quite helpful, especially to someone who is really into sports, because it is a distraction, and it's over an extended period," said Murray.
Seasonal affective disorder typically surfaces as daylight lessens, in the winter.
"The sun is highly related to it. People feel better when there is more light out," said Murray.
With SAD, negativity builds. The positive energy created by a deep Steelers playoff run, and the comraderie of wanting to send the Packers packing, enables those suffering from the disorder, a chance to think positively.
"Part of depression is getting into this negative state where you feel like a failure and your self esteem is very low. But because they identify with the team and the team's success, it sort of has the capacity to pull somebody up," said Murray.
So even if you aren't suffering from SAD, maybe just feeling a little down, gearing up for the Steelers drive to 45 could make you feel better.
The cold weather also keeps people indoors making them less active, which can also lead to depression.
If you are truly feeling depressed, seek professional care, but if you're just a little down, maybe some Steelers fever is all you need.
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