Seasonal depression, also known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD), is a type of depression that occurs at the same time each year. It is most commonly experienced during the fall and winter months, when there is less sunlight. This can lead to feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in activities.

The exact cause of SAD is not known, but it is thought to be related to changes in the levels of certain chemicals in the brain. The lack of sunlight during the fall and winter months can disrupt the body’s internal clock, leading to feelings of depression. Additionally, the decrease in sunlight can also lead to a decrease in the production of vitamin D, which can contribute to feelings of depression.

Light Therapy

One of the most effective treatments is light therapy. Light therapy involves sitting in front of a special light box for a certain amount of time each day. This helps to mimic the effects of natural sunlight and can help to regulate the body’s internal clock.

Light therapy works by stimulating the production of serotonin, a chemical in the brain that helps regulate mood, sleep, and appetite. It also suppresses the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep, which can help to regulate the body’s internal clock and improve symptoms of SAD.

How to use a light box?

The light box should be used in the morning, as soon as you wake up, and should be placed about 18-24 inches away from the face. The recommended time for light therapy is usually between 30 minutes to 1 hour per day. It’s important to use the light box at the same time each day to maintain consistency and achieve better results. Here are the top three therapy lights we recommend:

1. Light Therapy Lamp, UV-Free 10000

2. Verilux® HappyLight®

3. HILOLY Light Therapy Lamp

Light boxes not for everyone!

It’s important to note that light therapy is not recommended for everyone. It is not recommended for people with certain eye conditions, such as retinitis pigmentosa, or for people taking certain medications, such as lithium. It’s also not recommended for people who are sensitive to bright light or have a history of seizures. It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting light therapy to make sure it is a safe and appropriate treatment for you.

Seasonal Depression Light Therapy – Conclusion

In conclusion, light therapy is an effective treatment for seasonal depression (SAD) that involves sitting in front of a special light box for a certain amount of time each day. The light box emits bright light that mimics natural sunlight, which can help to regulate the body’s internal clock and improve symptoms of SAD. Light therapy works by stimulating the production of serotonin, a chemical in the brain that helps regulate mood, sleep, and appetite. It also suppresses the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep, which can help to regulate the body’s internal clock and improve symptoms of SAD. Light therapy is generally considered safe when used as directed, but it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting the treatment to make sure it is appropriate for you. Light therapy is a non-invasive and easy to use treatment option for those who are suffering from SAD.