Treatment for Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Sometimes It's More Than Just the Winter Blues
There are a few different types of treatment available for SAD, including anti-depressant medication, cognitive behavioral therapy and light treatment therapy.
Because seasonal mood variations are believed to be related to light, light therapy seems to be the most effective in treating SAD. The usual suggested use for light therapy is to use a lighbox for 30-60 minutes a day. Morning seems to be the best time to use light therapy as it mimics the natural sunrise.
Light therapy has not been approved by the FDA to treat SAD. You can purchase a lightbox in most pharmacies and you don't need a prescription. When buying a lightbox there are a few things you shoul keep in mind. You want to be sure the lightbox is intended for SAD treatment, the intensity of light should be at least 10,000 lux, it should emit minimal UV rays and you want it to be convenient to use so it will not become a bother to treat.
The Caribbean Sun Box is great for treating SAD symptoms. It is only nine inches by five inches so it can easily be placed on a desk or table for use, it has the required 10,000 lux output and it has a ten year warranty. The Caribbean Sun Box is quite inexpensive to use because it only uses nine watts of electricity. The suggested retail price is over $200 but you can get it at http://www.sadlight.com/ for $175.
The goLite BLU Portable Handheld Light Therapy Device is great for those who have to wake up and be to work before the sun comes up. It is only five and a half inches square by one inch thick so you can slip it in your purse or briefcase and take it with you. The goLite BLU operates on a rechargeable battery so you can even use it during your commute. This light provides the recommended 10,000 lux output and has a two year warranty. The suggested retail price for this light is $319 but it is available online at http://www.toolsforwellness.com/45102.html for only $199.99.
The Diamond 2 SAD Light Box is a wonderful choice at a great price. This light is a convenient size for use on a table or desk or you can purchas the optional floor stand to use for an entire room. The Diamond 2 provides 10,000 lux and weighs only three pounds. You can purchase The Diamond 2 online at
http://www.sad-light-boxes.co.uk/products/diamond_2_sad_light_box.htm for only $169 and you can get the otional floor stand for $42.61 at http://www.sad-light-boxes.co.uk/products/sadlightbox1.htm. You can also purchase a wall bracket for $30.
**Always be sure to see a physician if you suspect SAD. Bipolar Disorder has some of the same symptoms and you may need medication rather than just a light box.**
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seasonal_affective_disorder
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/seasonal-affective-disorder-treatment/DN00013
http://www.sadlight.com/
http://www.toolsforwellness.com/45102.html
http://www.sad-light-boxes.co.uk/
Published by Jean Anne
I am a stay-at-home mother of four children who enjoys writing and photography. I love to spend time outdoors with my family whether we are camping, fishing, swimming or just going for a bike ride. My life... View profile
Light Therapy: How Light Boxes WorkLight boxes, when used correctly, are a great form of light therapy, and can lead to more energy and less depression during the darker winter months. Here's an overview of how...- Seasonal Affective Disorder and Light TherapyA look at how light therapy can be used to treat the symptoms of SAD. Could light therapy be more effective than medication in helping to combat SAD?
- Seasonal Depression and Light Therapy in WinterSeasonal depression, often called seasonal affective disorder (SAD), is a depression that occurs each year at the same time, usually starting in fall or winter and
Seasonal Affective Disorder Natural TherapyRead about light, exercise, negative ions, good nutrition and counseling can help as natural therapy for seasonal affective disorder.
How to Fight Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) with Your DietSeasonal affective disorder (SAD) takes its toll on millions of Americans each year. If you're suffering from SAD, adjusting your diet could offer some benefits; here's what yo...
- Light Therapy for Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
- Winter Onset Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
- Light Therapy for Seasonal Affective Disorder
- Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
- Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) in Young Children
- Treatments for Seasonal Affective Disorder
- Is Your Child SAD? Recognizing Seasonal Affective Disorder in Children