Light therapy for the low-light months

Seasonal Affective Disorder effects millions of Americans

While it is not fully known what the causes of SAD are, many people now believe that in the fading light months, the brain produces a higher amount of a hormone called melatonin in the brain to compensate for the lack of light your body is receiving. Melatonin helps control body temperature and regulate hormone secretion and sleep. People who suffer with SAD produce greater amounts of melatonin in specific parts of their brains, therefore resulting in a deepening depression.  It should be said, however, that using this model of cause, there is a form of therapy known to help.

In Light Therapy, you sit and look into a box that casts a bright light with your eyes open for a designated amount of time. This small box contains a series of florescent lights that emits an intensity of light similar to that found outdoors. This mimic light causes a biochemical reaction in your brain, effectively slowing the flow of melatonin. This, in turn, can reverse the deepening depression, relieving symptoms within a matter of days.

It should be noted that the Food and Drug Administration has not approved Light Therapy as any official form of antidepressant. This is primarily due to lack of conclusive clinical study (most studies did not last longer than six weeks). You can purchase a light-box without a prescription, but it is advised that you discuss with your doctor beforehand.