Shine a light on your Seasonal Depression

Many independent studies now say that SAD lights are helpful in reducing the symptoms of seasonal depression.

It’s also known as winter depression, SAD or Seasonal Affective Disorder. SAD usually affects people in the sunshine-deprived winter months.

What makes us SAD?

There is a definite link between sunlight and health. Unfortunately, sunlight through clouds is already highly filtered.

For those living in northern climates, going to work early in the morning in the dark and returning home in the evening, also in the dark, light deprivation can create depression-like symptoms. This is sometimes called the winter blues or winter depression.

The link between depression and light is well established.

It might be months before people with such a routine experience the benefits of sunlight. Seasonal depression begins to affect most areas of their lives.

A solution?

Seasonal affective disorder lights, or natural sunlight lamps, are helping to reduce these feelings of depression.

Generally accepted as a natural therapy for depression, light therapy instruments have been around for awhile. The earlier models were call light boxes but, like everything else, they have evolved.

Researchers found that it is not necessary to use a big cumbersome box emitting broad spectrum light with massive intensity. These devices are now being made with low power LED bulbs and specific wavelengths that resemble the sun’s rays.

They also discovered that it is the specific wavelength of the lamp that makes the difference and not the intensity in alleviating seasonal deprtession.

How does it work?

It’s all centered round the ‘M’ word: Melatonin.

Melatonin, a hormone, is produced naturally in our bodies. Researchers have found that light treatment, at a specific wavelength, suppresses the production of melatonin and that this has a positive effect on our moods.

If we have too much melatonin, certain people have a tendency to become withdrawn and sink into seasonal depression.

Seasonal affective disorder lights, with rays resembling the sun, have been proven to reduce the amount of melatonin.

This is great news for those who might be suffering from SAD.

How is it used?

As most seasonal affective disorder lights are small, only about 8 inches square, they can easily be placed on any surface. It is advised that you turn it on for at least 15 minutes when you get up in the morning.

Instructions tell you to have it about 12-24 inches from your face and off to one side so that you are not looking directly into it. You can do this while you are working on the computer, shaving etc.

Does it work?

Thousands use a natural sunlight lamp with significant benefits. But, like every other natural approach, it will work for some and not for others. So you will have to take it for a test drive.

Is it safe?

Manufacturers state that those with eye diseases or eye conditions, those diagnosed with depression and those taking any medication, should consult with a doctor first before trying it.

Manufacturers also state that you should discontinue its use if you experience eye irritation or headaches.

This is The Body-Mind Connection. It’s cleansing the body to clear the mind.

Return to Alternative Treatment for Depression

Return from Seasonal Depression to the Home Page