Overcast skies linked to depression for some

Look, fast.

If you're lucky, you'll see a peek of sunshine Tuesday.

The last time Eastern Iowa experienced an appreciably sunny day was nearly one week ago, KCRG-TV9 meteorologist Justin Gehrts said.

“Since (Wednesday) it's been pretty much overcast the entire time,” he said.

This week's outlook, besides Tuesday's slight chance of sun, doesn't look much brighter.

“It's going to be one of those long, depressing stretches, I'm afraid,” Gehrts said.

Gloomy weather can lead to depression in the form of seasonal affective disorder, also known as SAD.

Sue Blome, a registered nurse at the Abbe Center for Community Mental Health in Cedar Rapids, said the weather can exacerbate problems stemming from the economy and 2008 floods in Iowa.

“Even people not in treatment comment on the fact that you feel more gloomy,” she said.

Blome said that gloomy feeling doesn't mean a person has seasonal affective disorder.

About 6 percent of Americans suffer from the disorder, characterized by a decrease in energy, appetite changes, fatigue, weight gain, difficulty concentrating and withdrawal from family and friends, she said.

Treatment can include antidepressants, exercise, psychotherapy and light therapy.

People experiencing symptoms should seek help, Blome said, especially if the depression leads to suicidal feelings.