3 ms·

I suffer from SAD. I didn't know it for years too. It was just that I ran into my dark phases, but had no actual clue how, or why. It was my psychologist, who

I suffer from SAD. I didn't know it for years too. It was just that I ran into my dark phases, but had no actual clue how, or why. It was my psychologist, who asked the pertinent question years ago: Is there some sort of pattern, or rhythm to this ordeal? Well, no shit Sherlock! It always seems to happen betwen October and March. He recommended a light and I got myself a Philips Energy Light, like 5 years ago and it makes huge difference. I still feel shitty, during most of late Autumn and early spring. But half an hour under the lamp, sipping green tea and usually reading whatever made life so much better. In addition: I'll head off for a month in Asia in January. That helps a lot too. Lack of light can seriously affect some people. This may not be a solution if you suffer from depression. Get help! If you suffer from depression. Really! I mean it! It can kill you! But for me, 30 minutes a day, under the light makes a world of a difference.

Udo 13y ago
> He recommended a light and I got myself a Philips Energy Light I had to look that one up and felt reminded of my internship in a psychiatric hospital where I was mostly stationed in the psychotherapy center. By far the most common problem the patients had was depression. We had a huge light panel in a dedicated room and would recommend patients just sit in front of it. I thought it was amazing how much of a difference half an our of light bath made. The staff were using it, too! This was of course in Germany where, except for a few short summer months, it's always dark and gloomy. > Asia in January When I first started traveling for business, this is what cured me as well. I always try to get in a few days extra in the Philippines when it's winter in the EU :)
edvinbesic 13y ago
It took me a while to. Living in Sweden it was hard in the winters. I didn't mind the cold (layer layer layer) or the snow (quite fun) but the darkness was killing me. Somebody I know recommended a quick tanning session (5-10 mins) on lowest setting once every two weeks and it made a huge difference. I know tanning is bad and all that, but so is being depressed. Now I live in Miami with plenty of light and no such issues, way more productive. Just my 2c

Udo 13y ago

> He recommended a light and I got myself a Philips Energy Light I had to look that one up and felt reminded of my internship in a psychiatric hospital where I was mostly stationed in the psychotherapy center. By far the most common problem the patients had was depression. We had a huge light panel in a dedicated room and would recommend patients just sit in front of it. I thought it was amazing how much of a difference half an our of light bath made. The staff were using it, too! This was of course in Germany where, except for a few short summer months, it's always dark and gloomy. > Asia in January When I first started traveling for business, this is what cured me as well. I always try to get in a few days extra in the Philippines when it's winter in the EU :)

edvinbesic 13y ago

It took me a while to. Living in Sweden it was hard in the winters. I didn't mind the cold (layer layer layer) or the snow (quite fun) but the darkness was killing me. Somebody I know recommended a quick tanning session (5-10 mins) on lowest setting once every two weeks and it made a huge difference. I know tanning is bad and all that, but so is being depressed. Now I live in Miami with plenty of light and no such issues, way more productive. Just my 2c