White Light Treatment for Seasonal Affective Disorder

Many people are affected by SAD in winter months.

Seasonal affective disorder is a condition characterized by periods of depression that occur in fall and winter months. Light therapy can sometimes treat seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

Causes

Seasonal affective disorder is related to environmental light. Overcast weather and poor indoor lighting can exacerbate SAD.

White Light Therapy

In white light therapy, bright lights are placed in a box that filters out ultraviolet radiation. The light box should be placed on a tabletop or stand, preferably at eye level or above.

Intensity

White light therapy generally creates a light as intense as early morning daylight.

Duration

The length of exposure depends on the intensity of the light, but daily sessions of 30 minutes are typical.

Time of Day

Seasonal affective disorder relates to light's effect on your internal circadian rhythm clock; most patients benefit from morning white light therapy.

Side Effects

Side effects to white light therapy are rare; however, some patients experience headaches, irritability, eyestrain, or nausea.

References

• National Alliance on Mental Illness: Seasonal Affective Disorder