The Happy Light: Your Cure for Seasonal Depression

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Nearly 10 million Americans experience seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a form of depression that typically affects people from late fall to early spring when the clocks fall back and it gets dark earlier. The lack of sunlight has been proven to cause depression.

Psychiatrists have recommended a light therapy box, often referred to as a happy light, that mimics outdoor light to combat the winter blues. Studies have shown that receiving a therapeutic dose of light causes a chemical change in the brain that lifts mood and energy.

How Do You Obtain a Light Box?

You can buy light boxes online, but it is important you talk to your doctor before purchasing one so they can advise on the dosage and strength of light that will be best for you.

Typical recommendations from doctors include:

• Using the light box within the first hour of waking
• Using the device for about 20 to 30 minutes at a time
• Keeping the device about 16 to 24 inches from your face
• Keeping your eyes open without looking directly at the light

If you have glaucoma, cataracts, or another form of eye damage, talk with your eye doctor before starting light therapy.