Seasonal Depression: Bring more Light into your Life

Seasonal Affective Disorder and seasonal depression is now recognized as a real condition. This winter influenced condition affects both our health and our wellbeing. Many who suffer from seasonal blues do not understand why, and don’t know where to turn for help.

What exactly is seasonal depression, or seasonal affective disorder? This condition, commonly referred to as S.A.D. occurs when the days shorten, and darker skies are predominant. Areas like Seattle, Washington may be higher in S.A.D. cases since the winter skies are commonly grey and cloudy.

Our work cycles do not promote healthy lifestyles. Many of us work in enclosed spaces with little natural light. We often commute in the dark, and with lower temperatures and rain we likely do not spend enough time in the light of day. This disrupts our brain cycle as well. Melatonin, one of our vital brain chemicals affects our sleep and mood. The affect of insufficient light is much like sleep walking through the day with low energy and insufficient concentration.

A common treatment for seasonal affective disorder, or S.A.D., is bright light therapy. These units use specially designed ballasts and lights that provide the high-intensity light needed to trigger the decrease of melatonin in the body. Melatonin is a sleep drug naturally created by the body. During the day Melatonin causes decreased energy, lethargic mood, and sleepiness.

How much light is produced by a high-quality bright light therapy unit? One unit can produce the equivalent to over a hundred 100 watt incandescent light bulbs. Does that seem excessive? It may seem so, but this light is far less than the natural sunlight on a sunny summer day.

How does this bright light therapy affect us? When we are exposed to light our brain naturally decreases the amount of melatonin introduced into the blood stream. This natural transition should occur on its own, but our lifestyles give us exposure to light during darker hours, during the time that the body should be resting.

What happens when bright light therapy is used to treat seasonal depression? Many report a higher energy level. The craving for carbohydrates decreases as well. Mood improves, for the better, and the ability to concentrate improves. Use of these bright lights is recommended in the morning to trigger the brain to shut off the nighttime needed melatonin.

If you are considering using therapeutic bright light therapy to improve your mood and energy level there are a few concepts to consider. The type of unit you purchase should be considered, with an output of light that is sufficient to stimulate the brain. Inexpensive units may not provide a sufficient amount of light. You should also check with your doctor or eye care specialist, as light therapy should not be used if by those with certain eye conditions.

You can use therapeutic bright lights as a part of your usual routines. Read the paper or a book during your session, or use it as a quality light for applying makeup or shaving. Use it while eating your breakfast, and think about how much higher your energy will be throughout the day. Brighten up your day with therapeutic bright lights.

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