What You Need to Know About Light Therapy and Treating SAD

Light therapy, alsoknown as phototherapy, is a form of treatment that uses natural or artificiallight to help alleviate certain health conditions. It is widely used to treat avariety of mental and physical ailments, including seasonal affective disorder(SAD).

What's Seasonal Affective Disorder?

Seasonal affectivedisorder (SAD) is a type of depression that typically occurs during the wintermonths when exposure to sunlight is limited. Common symptoms of SAD includefeelings of sadness and hopelessness, sleeping too much, losing interest inactivities, and having trouble concentrating.

Why Does Seasonal Affective Disorder Happen?

The exact cause of SADis still unknown, but there are several theories that have been proposed toexplain why it occurs. One theory is that it is a result of the shorter daysand longer nights associated with the winter months. These shorter days andlonger nights may disrupt the body's natural circadian rhythms and disrupt theproduction of melatonin, a hormone that helps regulate sleep and wake cycles.

Another theory is thatpeople with SAD may be more sensitive to the lack of sunlight during the wintermonths. Lower levels of sunlight can lead to a decrease in serotonin, aneurotransmitter responsible for regulating mood and emotions. Additionally,lower levels of sunlight can disrupt the body's natural production of VitaminD, which can lead to a decrease in energy levels and a feeling of fatigue.

Finally, the decrease insocial interactions and activities during the winter months can also contributeto SAD. People may feel lonely and isolated, which can lead to a decrease inmood and energy levels.

How Does Light Therapy Help Treat Seasonal AffectiveDisorder?

Light therapy utilizes bright artificial light to simulate natural sunlight. The light is usually a special type of light box that emits a very bright light, usually 10,000 lux(lux is a measure of light intensity). The person sits in front of the lightbox for a period of time, usually between 30 minutes and two hours, and the light is directed at the face and eyes.

So, how does it work? Well, bright light helps to increase the amount of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that affects mood, in the brain. This helps to regulate the body's internal clock, which can affect mood and energy levels. It can also increase the body's production of melatonin, which helps to regulate sleep.

Is There an Alternative to Light Therapy for SeasonalAffective Disorder?

Light therapy is themost common and effective treatment for SAD, but there are other treatmentsavailable as well:

1. Exercise

Exercise has been foundto be as effective as light therapy for SAD. It can help to increase serotoninlevels in the brain, which can help boost mood, energy, and concentrationlevels. Exercise also increases endorphins, which can help to reduce stress.

2. Diet

Eating a balanced diet and avoiding certain foods that can trigger depression can help to lessen the symptoms of SAD. Eating foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals, such as fruits and vegetables, can help to boost mood and energy levels.

3. Medication

Antidepressants can be used to treat SAD and other forms of depression. They can help to boost mood and reduce the symptoms of SAD. However, it is important to speak with a doctor before taking any medication.

4. Alternative Therapies

Herbal remedies and supplements have been used for centuries to treat depression, but there is limited scientific evidence to support their use. Acupuncture, yoga, and meditation can also be helpful in reducing the symptoms of SAD.

Conclusion

Overall, light therapy is an incredibly effective treatment for SAD. If you are experiencing this condition, it is vital that you reach out to a professional to undergo the therapy. Additionally, consider implementing other alternatives to the treatment. Used together, they can result in a happier, more satisfying life, even during the coldest and darkest months. So, what are you waiting for? Enjoy light therapy today!

LightVitamin helps every individual understand the importance of light in one's health. If you are interested in light therapy, reach out to us right away.

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