Seasonal affective disorder : Kaamos syndrome

Finland and Scandinavia is a region with severe seasonal fluctuations. However, one of the key Seasonal affective disorder people face in Finland is "Kaamos Syndrome". In Finland, one can experience 20 hours day in summer but also 24 hours long night.

Figure 1: A normal day in mid day in December 2011

Figure2: A normal day in April 2012

What is Kaamos syndrome and what happens in it?

But to answer these question first look at the term Kaamos.
Kaamos is the term used for the Polar Night of Finland. In polar night one can experience 24 hour night and total darkness. It is impossible to imagine for most people in the world. But it happens every year in Finland for the people living there. When people wakeup in the morning for example 9 am it is dark outside and at 1 pm it is dark in the day.

Due during the Kaamos duration people experience winter depression and that is called Kaamos Syndrome.

In kaamos syndrome people experience includes: such as feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness, thoughts of suicide, loss of interest in activities, withdrawal from social interaction, sleep and appetite problems, difficulty with concentration and decisions, decreased sex drive, a lack of energy, or agitation".

Kaamos syndrome is one of the major reason for Finland's suicide rates remain one of the highest in the OECD. In 2011, the suicide rate per 100,000 population was 16.4 [1].

How to tackle Kaamos Syndrome?

The Kaamos syndrome can only be tackled with physical activity and interaction with people.

1. In Finland people are very shy and talk very little hence it is important to be social and create a strong network where one can hang out after work.
2. Physical workout such as skiing, floorball, Ice hockey, and Gym.
3. Invest in hobby with people to people contact.
4. Avoid drinking, smoking and all unhealthy junk food.
5. prepare every meal at home or with friends.

References:
[1]. http://healthland.time.com/2011/04/25/why-the-happiest-states-have-the-highest-suicide-rates/