To people who have been diagnosed with seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, the use of a SAD lamp as a therapeutic tool is pretty common. They are also called light boxes or light therapy boxes. Their purpose is to provide intensive full spectrum light exposure which is thought to lessen the depressive symptoms related to SAD.
How Does a SAD Lamp Work?
Light therapy efficiently improves the symptoms associated with seasonal affective disorder. Because the lack of sun seems to cause SAD, it makes a lot of sense that therapy utilizing lights is the preferred treatment.
Treatment of SAD disorder with light therapy is said to be effective for about 60 to 80 per cent of patients, with people noticing considerable improvement in just a few days.
These lamps may be purchased quite easily online and for the most effective results the user needs to sit in front of the light therapy lamp for about 30 minutes to two hours daily. However, it is important to never look directly at the light source.
Most people using SAD lights for therapy prefer to use them when they wake up in the morning, but they can also be used in the evening. Some patients also find it helpful to set an automatic timer to start the lamp two hours before they wake up. This is to create a natural sunrise affect.
SAD Lamp Features to Look Out For
When buying a lamp, ensure that the light box is built specifically for treating SAD disorder. Nowadays, there are some lamps that are supposed to treat multiple types of depression so it’s important to check. Also, it is vital to check out the light intensity levels. Make sure that the bulbs are bright enough even when sitting at the appropriate distance away. It should simulate a gradual sunrise and sunset.
Note that ultraviolet (UV) light can cause skin damage as well as be harmful to the eyes. Search online for a box that can reduce the amount of UV light but will still provide the high intensity needed for the treatment. If the information on amount of UV rays given off by the lamp is unclear, check with the manufacturer to ask for specific safety measures.
Which SAD lamp you choose will largely depend on a person’s lifestyle. Look for one that will allow you to take an easy daily treatment.
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