MOSCOW, July 28. /TASS/. Stable sleep patterns, walks, and suitable lighting can support the sleep and well-being of Arctic residents, though they alone cannot guarantee depression prevention and cannot replace professional treatment if the disease is developing already, clinical psychologist Olga Fidrya told TASS.

"Generally speaking, there is no special "Arctic psychotherapy," she said. "Depression in the northern regions is treated with the same proved methods like elsewhere, though with additional attention to light, sleep, and to seasonal symptoms."

In order to maintain sleep and circadian rhythms, it is important to maintain a stable sleep and wake regime, to get the most available natural light in the morning, and darken the bedroom during the white nights season, the expert said. Light therapy may be a treatment option for winter depression, but using it requires prior consultations with specialists, especially so if a person has signs of bipolar disorder, eye diseases, or if a person is taking medications that increase light sensitivity. As of now, there is still insufficient evidence that light therapy, initiated before the onset of symptoms specifically to prevent a new episode, may be efficient.

Cognitive behavioral therapy adapted for a seasonal pattern (CBT-SAD) is one of the treatments for seasonal depression, the psychologist said. In a big randomized research, CBT-SAD and light therapy demonstrated comparable effectiveness in an acute episode treating. During the first winter after that treatment, specialists did not find differences between groups, and by the second winter, relapses were less common after CBT-SAD than after light therapy. Regular physical activity and social contacts, including remote psychological programs for residents of remote settlements, are also helpful in supporting well-being.

"It is most important to note: if a depressive disorder has formed already, the regime, walking and light should not replace treatment. Depending on the condition severity, specialists use evidence-based types of psychotherapy - primarily CBT and behavioral activation, plus doctors may prescribe antidepressants. In cases of more severe depression, specialists often consider using a combination of psychotherapy and drug treatment," the psychologist noted.

People should address a psychologist, psychotherapist or psychiatrist if a depressed mood or loss of interest or pleasure from habitual activities persists for most part of the day almost daily for at least two weeks, especially if sleep, appetite, concentration and performance deteriorate, she added. At the same time, a two-week period does not mean that assistance may be postponed: if the condition worsens rapidly or disrupts daily life noticeably, people should contact a specialist even earlier. In case of thoughts of suicide, a person's intentions to harm himself, in case of psychotic symptoms, or conditions where people are unable to take care of themselves, urgent professional help is required.