Many people dread the shorter days that come along with winter. For women, especially, the change in seasons can lead to a real problem.

No one knows how many people have Seasonal Affective Disorder or why women are much more likely to be affected but as you'll see in December's Health Check, there are ways to feel better.

For Michelle Swain, the change in seasons makes life in a cubicle even worse. The gray days and lack of light leave her tired, hungry and down.

"I do recognize it in myself and just think I'm not my normal self ," she says. "So there are just some things I do to feel better because if I feel down my friends and family feel down around me."

Swain believes she has Seasonal Affective Disorder, a specific type of depression that usually appears in the colder months when we are exposed to less sunlight.

Some of the most common symptoms are being very tired, especially during the day and increased appetite. Sufferers will often crave starchy foods.

Dr. Greg Keane treats patients once Seasonal Affective Disorder starts interfering with their lives.

The Alegent Psychiatrist says, "Where it becomes Seasonal Affective Disorder is where it really starts to affect their life. It may affect relationships; it may affect work. So that's the point where we would say it's more than the winter blahs."

Michelle Swain has the right idea when it comes to relief. Light therapy has proven benefits.

Doctors say 30 minutes each morning under a full-spectrum light can help lengthen a person's day and decrease the production of melatonin connected to our moods.

Exercise also enhances the way we feel.

Michelle says "It's a gradual progression, not exactly like you would be during the spring and summer but it does help enhance mood and help you get through the dreary days."

While Michelle will never look forward to the winter, at least she has found ways to cope.

Dr. Keane says a combination of treatments is usually most helpful to patients. That can range from exercise and light therapy to anti-depressants and cognitive therapy.

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