01/08/2026
Beacon Naturopath Daily Dose: Winter Blues Part 2:
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that typically occurs each year during fall and winter (although there is also Summer SAD, which has different causes and treatments). For winter SAD use of a light box that mimics outdoor light can offer relief. But for some people, light therapy may be more effective when combined with another SAD treatment, such as an antidepressant or talk therapy.
When choosing the right light box for you there are a few important things to consider:
Generally, the light box should:
* Provide an exposure to 10,000 lux of light
* Produce as little UV light as possible
* Some light therapy lamps are designed for skin disorders — not for SAD. Lamps used for skin disorders mainly produce ultraviolet (UV) light and could damage your eyes if used incorrectly.
Typical recommendations include using the light box:
* Within the first hour of waking up in the morning
* For about 20 to 30 minutes
* About 16 to 24 inches (41 to 61 centimeters) from your face, but follow the manufacturer’s instructions about distance
* With eyes open, but not looking directly at the light
You can buy a light box without a prescription, but most health insurance plans don’t cover the cost.
It is recommended to only manage SAD under the supervision of a clinician.
If you (or someone you know) is experiencing depression and having thoughts of harming yourself/themself or others please seek immediate medical care by going to an ER and/or reaching out to a crisis hotline (in NYS you can call or text 988).
Read More: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/seasonal-affective-disorder/in-depth/seasonal-affective-disorder-treatment/art-20048298
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/seasonal-affective-disorder
https://omh.ny.gov/omhweb/crisis/988.html
