Lighting for the Winter Blahs

Special light treatments may lessen or eliminate the winter blahs.

Individuals that complain about the "winter blahs" may suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD. SAD is a type of recurring depression that typically appears during the fall and winter. Doctors often recommend the use of special lamps and light boxes to treat the disorder.

Use

Lamps and light boxes designed to treat SAD mimic outdoor light. Individuals suffering from SAD generally use the devices by looking indirectly at the bright light the device produces for 30 minutes or more every day.

Buying a Light Box

Light boxes and SAD lamps are available at some home stores, pharmacies and online. Light boxes are sold over-the-counter, so you do not need a prescription to purchase one. However if you plan to use your health insurance to cover the costs your particular provider may require a prescription.

Costs

Prices for light boxes vary; a typical appliance can cost any where from $100 to $500.

References

• Mayo Clinic