Feeling symptoms of depression during this rainy season? The happiness light might help!
Have you heard of the magic light that helps with the symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)?
If you’re not sure what Seasonal Affective Disorder is, it’s a mood disorder that is often affected by colder weather, shorter days and lack of sunlight, which can lead to more serious symptoms of depression.
This rainy season is having these effects on me! As I tackle my half marathon training, I’m feeling less and less motivated as EVERY run has been in the rain for the last couple weeks.
SAD can be effectively treated in a number of ways, including light therapy. Studies show that light therapy can improve mood and enhance sleep efficiency during the winter season. Seasonal Affective Disorder can be quite common with about 5% of adults who are affected every year.
How does it work?
Light therapy involves exposing yourself to a special bright lamp that produces the effects of natural light. Similar to a desk light, these happiness lights can be placed within 6 or more inches from your body. This triggers the chemicals in your brain to help regulate your mood.
It’s a very simple process to feel the benefits of the happiness light, simply turn on the light and carry on with your regular activities like reading, writing, or even working at your desk. It typically requires a minimum of 20 minutes a day to see results and most people see improvements within one or two weeks of beginning treatments.
Before rushing to purchase a happiness light, please see a medical professional if you experience any of these symptoms below:
- changes in appetite and weight
- sleep problems
- loss of interest in work, hobbies, people or sex
- withdrawal from family members and friends
- low self-esteem
- irritability
- fatigue
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