by KYW's John Ostapkovich
A Welsh psychologist says, according to his formula, this is the most depressing time of the year. But a local psychiatrist says the formula doesn't add up.
University of Cardiff psychologist Cliff Arnall has a complex formula for depression, combining such variables as weather, personal debt, and failed New Year's resolutions (which reach their peak now).
Dr. Rajnish Mago (right), director of the Mood Disorders program at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia, says the formula has no scientific value -- but some of the items in it do:
"Dr. Arnall's point about more depression during the winter is certainly well-taken, and many of the factors in his formula can operate in different individuals."
He says Christmas and New Year's can indeed be triggers for depression but factors don't add up like entries in a calculator. People are too complex.
Dr. Mago says seasonal affective disorder ("SAD") is biologically-based and can be treated with light therapy, but for most people who say their depression is worse in the winter, the underlying problems are year round.
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