According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, “Seasonal affective disorder (also called SAD) is a type of depression that is triggered by the seasons. The most common type of SAD is called winter-onset depression. Symptoms usually begin in late fall or early winter and go away by summer.” Symptoms include:
- Increased fatigue
- Increased appetite and cravings, especially for more dense foods, such as starches and carbohydrates
- Weight gain
- Lethargy
- Decreased desire to exercise
- Lack of interest in participating in usually enjoyable pastimes
- Trouble concentrating or focusing at work or other daily activities
Treatment of Seasonal Affective Disorder
Light therapy is the most common treatment for SAD. LED light boxes are used to recreate natural sunlight that is hard to find in the winter months. The light therapy triggers the suppression of melatonin, a chemical that leads to depression and/or insomnia, fixing the chemical imbalances and reducing occurances of bad moods. There are many other benefits to light therapy, including a decrease in acne and some relief from the symptoms of lupus.
This type of healing is relatively inexpensive and more feasible in comparison to other forms of treatment, such as cognitive therapy or taking a costly vacation that only lasts a short period of time.
Zadro Sunlight 365 Personal Artificial Sunlight Therapy
- 10,000 LUX
- Can be portable, handheld, or desktop
The Zadro Sunlight 365 Personal Artificial Sunlight Therapy lamp uses LED blue light technology to treat the effects of SAD. For best results, users should this light box for 30-60 minutes per day, first thing in the morning. Its size and digital clock make it perfect for desktop use at the office.
Price: From $41 plus free shipping from Amazon.com
Philips goLITE BLU Light Therapy Device
- 5.25 x 5.5 x 1 inches
- Portable (includes rechargeable battery)
The Philips goLITE Blu Light Therapy Device uses blue light technology, which has been proven to be twice as effective as white light in treating the symptoms of SAD. The portability and size of the light makes it easy to transport and use anywhere. The goLITE Blu also features an easy-to-use touch screen and digital clock/timer so you can wake up to natural sunlight and feel more refreshed in the morning. You can also adjust the intensity of the light according to your personal needs.
Price: $147.53 plus free shipping from Amazon.com
NatureBright SunTouch Plus Light and Ion Therapy Lamp
- 7 x 8.1 x 13.4 inches
- 10,000 LUX
The NatureBright SunTouch Plus therapy lamp is a powerful light that eases the symptoms of SAD, as well as menstrual and menopause discomfort, jet lag, sleep difficulties, and fatigue. This lamp also has a unique feature that releases negative ions during use, which recreates the feeling of fresh air, as if you were near a waterfall or experiencing a gentle ocean breeze.
Price: $118.99 plus free shipping from Amazon.com
HappyLite® Mini™ Ultra
- Stands 12″H, 51/2″W, 33/4″D
- 5000 LUX
The HappyLite® Mini™ Ultra sun lamp is the perfect size for your desk at work, a night stand next to the bed, or any place you need some extra sunlight to boost your mood.
Price: $99.99 from Miles Kimball