Treating SAD Winter Depression

Seasonal affective disorder, also known as SAD winter depression, is a condition brought on by lack of sunlight due to the short days of winter, which can trigger depression in some individuals. Around fifteen to twenty percent of the population becomes depressed in winter, ranging from light to severe cases. Five percent of the population will fall victim to deep depression during this time with a loss of a normally happy mood, a desire to be alone, a desire to overeat and a loss of interest for formerly enjoyed activities. One out of ten men and one out of five women suffer from this form of depression.

The most common way of treating the symptoms of SAD winter depression is using light therapy. Light therapy has been used for several years to circumvent the loss of sunlight during the bleak winter months. It is the first choice of many doctors because it is a safe and natural method of treatment.

Seasonal affective disorder light therapy involves exposure to special bulbs and treats depressive disorders by exposing patients to light that mimics natural sunlight. This tricks the brain into believing that the brighter, longer days of spring have arrived, and therefore eliminates the need for patients to take antidepressants to treat the symptoms of winter depression; drugs which can have adverse side effects.

Light therapy is done with the help of special light therapy lamps. Also known as photo therapy, this form of treatment involves exposing the eyes and skin to specific light wavelengths using LEDs, or light emitting diodes, fluorescent light, lasers or bright lights that emit all the colors of the spectrum. This type of procedure is prescribed for a short period of time and is non-invasive. It does not require anything but eye and skin exposure to produce relief.

Exposure to this type of light source that mimics natural sunlight for as little as thirty minutes a day can have a dramatic affect on those suffering from winter depression. For most people, this method works rather quickly, but it can take up to ten days to feel the effects if your case of SAD winter depression is particularly severe. Seasonal affective disorder lamps work quickly for many and the best part is that no pharmaceutical drugs are needed.

Related topics about SAD Winter Depression

Be Aware of Winter Depression Symptoms
Treatment options will vary from person to person. Often people will experience winter depression symptoms differently when under the affects of this disorder and no two cases of it are alike. Once your doctor has eliminated other mood disorders, only then can he or she begin the correct type of treatment.

Dealing With Winter Depression Syndrome
Once your doctor has diagnosed you with winter depression syndrome, consider your treatment options carefully. There are some natural choices that work great and have no side effects. Treatments for winter depression include exercise, yoga, using light boxes for bright light therapy, biofeedback and medication.

Winter Depression Light Therapy
People dealing with this seasonal disorder don't automatically exhibit all the typical symptoms, so it is very important to contact a doctor for a check up. Winter depression light therapy can help until longer days and more hours of sunlight arrive. Miraculously, the signs of this depression seem to disappear with the arrival of the beautiful days of spring and ample sunlight.