Making the Diagnosis
Even if someone is not predisposed to depression, SAD can affect them. The
diagnosis for SAD is done through a medical examination. Certain criteria must
be met before SAD is considered. Other medical conditions may make the diagnosis
of SAD more difficult, and each condition may require specific treatment.
A doctor should rule out other possibilities such as full-scale depression
and depression due to other factors. A doctor may want to try some forms of
therapy that are effective with SAD. If these work, then the person probably
has SAD.