Light Therapy for Seasonal Affective Disorder

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that typically occurs with changes in seasons, specifically during the fall and winter months, when daylight hours are shorter. Seasonal affective disorder is a recurring seasonal pattern, it begins and ends around the same time every year. SAD symptoms may include lethargy, low mood, hypersomnia, and difficulty concentrating. 

Seasonal affective disorder seems to be triggered by a drop in daily light exposure. Light affects systems that control the 24-hour circadian clock, which not only regulates the sleep cycle but also digestion, hormones, and other functions within the body. 

Light therapy works to combat seasonal affective disorder, light exposure seems to affect higher-functioning areas of the brain. Light therapy can be an appealing alternative to medications, like antidepressant drugs as it can improve symptoms of SAD within the week with little to no side effects. Consistent use of light therapy beds for about 20 to 30 minutes a day is an effective way to reduce or prevent SAD. 

Treatments for SAD may include light therapy (phototherapy), psychotherapy, and medications.