Your guide to Seasonal Affective Disorder

At just £235, the Bite Box certainly seems like a bargain. It has 4 light tubes that produce ideal lighting conditions for treatment of S.A.D., and it can be packed up and transported quite easily (it assumes the shape of a brief case). It is advertised for office or home use and has a myriad of features that make it appealing.

Being a sufferer of S.A.D., I decided to try it out and order it. It arrived a week after my order and appeared exactly as advertised. There was no “installation” or configuration; it was literally plug and play.

Initial Impression

The build quality appears quite high, and I’m glad to see that everything is as advertised. This saved me from getting confused or having to make a complaint, as one of my fears with shopping online is that you never seem to receive what you were expecting.

The Brite Box also has a built in timer that is set at 30 minutes which is a very nice touch. This prevents overexposure, not to mention lets you know when your treatment is finished. I found that I just sat down, flicked on the time, and watched TV or read a book. By the time the unit had switched off I was already feeling better.

Usage Impression

Because the unit is so portable I also took it with me to my office. I sit in a cubicle for 8 hours a day as an insurance adjuster, so I don’t get a chance to get much Sun. Having the Brite Box on in the morning made it much easier to get focused and motivated on what I was supposed to accomplish for the day. In fact, the Brite Box has made me a better employee, as I arrive and am ready to go. It’s like an instant energy boost, and I’m glad to have it.

One thing I would like to see in the future is perhaps a different colored case. It’s not that I don’t like the silver/polished aluminum look, but I’d prefer something in a mat finish in some kind of black color. Either way, it’s a small complaint and certainly doesn’t detract from the capabilities of the unit itself.

Overall

At well under £250 the Brite Box is a great buy that is loaded with features. Its portability really expands its usefulness, and it does the job. What more can you ask for in a Light box?

A few weeks ago I posted a review of the Diamond 3 Light box, and after some careful consideration, I decided to sell it and purchase the Diamond 4 simply because I liked the idea of treatments taking a little less time. The Diamond 3 was a great unit and I still recommend it, but instead of 30-40 minute treatments I’d rather 20-30 minute ones instead.I purchased the Diamond 4 for £270, which is around £25 more than the Diamond 3. That extra £25 gives you an extra bulb, which is the entire point behind these dang things anyway.

Initial Impression

The Diamond 4 arrived six days after my order, and once I had it in my hands it was the same simple setup process as the Diamond 3. This time, however, I ordered the optional wall mounting brackets and did a bit of custom installation. Rather than have it sit on the floor or mount on the wall I mounted it above my shower. I am fortunate enough to be blessed with a shower that sits on the ceiling directly above the shower as opposed to being mounted on a wall.

I turn the Diamond 4 on when I walk in the shower, and since I spend a few minutes every day in there and it is reasonably contained I feel that it will work out well. It’s mounted in such a way that it won’t come into contact with any water, and all of the electric components are put into the wall and shielded in order to prevent me from getting one nasty electric shock.

Usage Impression

I found that my average shower length was 15 minutes, and while I was in there the Diamond 4 was on full blast. I noticed that the results were similar to my 30 minute sessions with the Diamond 3, and I can’t even begin to tell you how nice that feeling is. I feel refreshed, “alive”, and in charge. When I don’t use the light box I tend to feel sluggish and tired, so it’s great to shed that feeling during the winter.

It worked great when mounted to my shower roof, it never malfunctioned, and it didn’t mind the slight increase in humidity either.

Overall

I don’t recommend mounting the Diamond 4 in the shower unless you’re willing to accept the responsibility of something happening (as I was). It works great, and it’s definitely worth the £25 difference between the Diamond 3.

Seasonal affective disorder is a pattern of depression or depression-like symptoms that affect its sufferers following seasonal, light, and climate shifts. Also known as SAD, seasonal affective disorder generally takes its toll on persons during the fall and winter months and is known to affect over 10 million Americans. Typical symptoms of seasonal affective disorder include lethargy, depression, mood swings, and weight gain or loss.

Seasonal affective disorder is typically felt during the autumn and winter months. Only a very small percentage of SAD sufferers experience the condition during the spring or summer. The onslaught of seasonal affective disorder can appear as early as mid Autumn and can last as long as mid Spring; causing some extreme sufferers to feel its effects for half the year. Furthermore, there have been cases of SAD-prone people experiencing symptoms year round when confined in buildings with a lack of windows or no windows at all. The shift from a SAD-induced state of depression into the relative peace of the spring and summer months can sometimes induce a manic reaction in sufferers that can require medicinal treatment such as mood stabilizers. Some extreme cases of seasonal affective disorder require hospitalization.

The demographic criterion for seasonal affective disorder sufferers has been relatively thoroughly established. More than 75% of seasonal affective disorder sufferers are female, and they are typically over thirty years old. Additionally, it is generally reported that the higher north a population is located geographically, the greater the percentage of seasonal affective disorder victims located in that population. Furthermore, someone that has never had SAD symptoms before can start experiencing them after relocating to a point more north than they had been before or even by spending more time indoors, away from windows.It is estimated that nearly half of all Americans can be affected by mood shifts that can be attributed to seasonal changes, but seasonal affective disorder patients suffer from these symptoms on a much greater scale. For instance, it is well known that many Americans generally get a case of “the blues” following the Holidays every year. However, seasonal affective disorder patients suffer from bouts that last far longer and are much more severe.

Treatment options are available for seasonal affective disorder and have varying degrees of success. Since the symptoms of SAD recur yearly, treatment timelines are typically indefinite and strict treatment schedules must be adhered to for the full term to avoid relapse.

Seasonal affective disorder has not long been classified as a genuine disorder. The term only first appeared in 1985 and existing treatment methods, though effective, are still being researched. It took until June of 2006 for the US Food and Drug Administration to approve the use of Wellbutrin XL for the treatment of depressive symptoms caused by seasonal affective disorder.

Since the affliction is fairly new to the American public, many suffer from seasonal affective disorder and not even know it. This problem can be compounded if the person is misdiagnosed with depression, anxiety, or some other such condition that is similar to that of seasonal affective disorder.Here are some warning signs that someone may be suffering from seasonal affective disorder:

• Lethargy or general lack of energy, especially during winter months.
• Depression and feelings of worthlessness, especially during winter months.
• Unaccountable body aches and muscle pains, particularly during winter months.
• Unexplainable suicidal thoughts.
• Exceptionally poor sleeping habits. Particularly insomnia and having a hard time waking. Nearly 90% of all seasonal affective disorder sufferers experience a need for more sleep than usual.
• Uncontrollable and otherwise unexplainable depression that recur yearly around the same time and last throughout the winter months.
• Overeating for no explainable reason. Over 70% of seasonal affective disorder sufferers report eating more than usual, particularly during bouts of extreme depression. Around 80% report an uncontrollable and otherwise unexplainable craving for carbohydrates and sugary sweets. Unsurprisingly, nearly the exact same percentage of around 80% report gaining weight.
• Thoughts of suicide, especially during winter months.
• A complete or nearly complete remission of all adverse symptoms at the change of seasons from winter to spring, only to have them return with the return of cold weather.

Not surprisingly, the instances of seasonal affective disorder rises the farther north from the Equator one travels. Interestingly, however, the existence of snow in a particular geographical location seems to diminish the incidences of seasonal affective disorder.

The first course of action a person should take if they believe they may be afflicted with seasonal affective disorder is to speak to a healthcare professional that is familiar with the syndrome and discuss possible treatment options such as medication and light therapy. Since seasonal affective disorder recurs each year, treatments will most likely be required to be utilized for an indefinite period of time, particularly during the winter months.

Sufferers of seasonal affective disorder have found relief successfully through the use of light therapy that closely mimics the natural light given off from the sun. Physicians and researchers tend to agree that the reason this method works so well is because of the inclination of the human brain to release certain “feel good” chemicals into the body when the eyes are exposed to the sun for regular intervals, most often daily.

Conventional household lighting will not suffice for the treatment of seasonal affective disorder because it lacks the sufficient intensity and luminance to be effective.

The luminance intensity of light is referred to as lux. Lux is the measure of how luminescent light is. A fluorescent bulb’s lux is a good indicator of whether or not it will be useful for the purpose of treating seasonal affective disorder with light therapy.

There are several recommended dimensions to gauge accurate dosing by and light intensity is only one of them, though when using light therapy as a treatment for seasonal affective disorder a relatively high intensity is typically needed to mimic the natural light given off by the sun.

The light intensity, or lux, recommended for light treatment is between 2,500 to 10,000 lux. This is the equivalent of an early morning to mid morning light. Comparatively, conventional household light bulbs emit approximately 50 to 300 lux.

Other means of gauging light dosing levels are light duration and the time of day of exposure.The time of day of exposure refers to the affect that light has on the human body in regards to what time of day it is exposed. For instance, the human circadian rhythm is affected by the manner of sunlight that is emitted during separate parts of the day. This makes sense, since early humans would set their entire schedule around the cycle of the Earth and the Sun by becoming energetic during morning light and increasingly calm as the sun sets. This time of day exposure can be used to manipulate and stave off the symptoms caused by seasonal affective disorder, particularly when a majority of the cause is from staying indoors too much.

Finally, light duration – the amount of time exposed to the light therapy or natural sunlight – is an important facet to consider during treatment for seasonal affective disorder. The current standard is generally 30 minute sessions of 10,000 lux. As expected, more time would be needed for less intensity.

Seasonal affective disorder can be treated in a number of ways. Many opt for prescription drugs or psychotherapy for relief, but others that are plagued with the affliction seek a more natural method of treatment in light therapy. Light therapy for seasonal affective disorder is generally done in the home under no direct physician supervision. The patient sits or stands in the direct path of a bright light emitted from a light box that houses powerful fluorescent light bulbs. The light given off from the light box is so powerful and close to natural sunlight that it helps the seasonal affective disorder sufferer’s brain release natural chemicals such as melatonin that will elevate mood and overcome the depressive symptoms of SAD.

As you may expect, there are several models of light boxes available that are specifically manufactured for the treatment of seasonal affective disorder. While price may be a main factor in the search there are other factors that must be considered:

• Ultraviolet light exposure – Look for light boxes that either shield emitted UV rays or simply do not expose the user to UV rays.
• Blue light exposure – Blue light exists at the far end of the light spectrum and should be avoided as much as possible due to its unwanted affects on the eyes and eyesight.
• Light intensity – Optimum intensity is usually around 10,000 lux. Look for a light box that can deliver this recommended dosage at more than just a couple of inches so that you can remain comfortable while using the light box.
• Size – Be sure to buy a light box that is the appropriate size to the area in which you will be using it.
• Light direction – Light therapy boxes should broadcast the light from above the eyes and from no other direction, thoroughly mimicking the direction of the sun

Light boxes for the treatment of seasonal affective disorder can typically be purchased over-the-counter without a prescription from a doctor. While they may be easier to find online, finding several in a store will give the SAD sufferer the opportunity to more closely inspect the light box to ensure that it may suit their needs.

Persons with SAD should consult their physician before starting a light therapy regimen. Some possible side effects include irritability, fatigue, eyestrain, headaches, insomnia, dry mouth, agitation, and nausea. Side effects typically subside quickly after discontinuation of the treatment.

In their search to stave off the harsh symptoms of seasonal affective disorder treatment every year, many sufferers turn to prescription medication as well as the more common light therapy. Since the disorder primarily only affects the person during the winter months, when days are notably shorter in length and much more time is spent indoors, the medication schedule is typically cyclical as well. Most sufferers find that they only have to take prescription medication for about half the year or less.

The first prescription medication to be specifically approved for the treatment of seasonal affective disorder is Wellbutrin XL, or bupropion hydrochloride extended release. Wellbutrin (bupropion) is an aminoketone-class anti-depressive medication that is typically prescribed to patients as a treatment for depression, anxiety, and even smoking-cessation.

A double-blind clinical trial was conducted by Glaxo-Smith-Kline, Wellbutrin’s manufacturer. Over 1,000 trial volunteers that are afflicted with seasonal affective disorder were given either Wellbutrin XL or a placebo starting in the late autumn or early winter months, the time frame at which SAD syndrome typically kicks in. The selection process was entirely random and the treatment was halted in the spring, when symptoms typically dissipate. Out of the Wellbutrin XL users, almost 85% reported no depression compared to only around 70% of placebo users.

Another common type of medication prescribed for the treatment of seasonal affective disorder is that of SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors). SSRIs are most commonly used to treat various types of depression and anxiety disorders so their use in treating seasonal affective disorder is not surprising. The most common SSRIs used to treat SAD syndrome are Zoloft (sertraline), Paxil (paroxetine), and Prozac (fluoxetine).

Side effects with anti-depressants are not rare and in some cases have been known to become as consuming to the individual as the original condition being treated. Side effects of Wellbutrin XL include, anxiety, agitation, dizziness, sweating, hypertension, headache, insomnia, dry mouth, tremors, loss of appetite, and increased risk of seizure.

Treating seasonal affective disorder with medication is favored among most physicians and researchers as long as other methods such as light therapy are employed and the medicinal regimen is thoroughly monitored and regulated under the careful guidance of a physician. The multi-faceted approach utilized by most physicians comfortable with the condition of prescribing antidepressive medication plus exercise and light treatments has proven exceptionally successful in a number of seasonal affective disorder sufferers.

Persons suffering from seasonal affective disorder are at a greater risk of having a very difficult time of waking in the morning. Many SAD sufferers have reported that increased light in their bedroom that appears just before their alarm goes off can help a great deal in waking them smoothly and more effectively.

Devices that are typically used for the treatment of seasonal affective disorder such as light boxes can be set to timers so that they are turned on just before the alarm sounds, but this method can provide for a jolting experience at times, particularly for a spouse who doesn’t suffer from SAD.

A more gentle method improvised for seasonal affective disorder sufferers is one of an alarm clock with a built in “dawn simulation lamp.” The simulation lamp is built right into the alarm clock. At a set time before the alarm is to sound, the light turns itself on gently and begins to brighten slowly, simulating a sunrise. At a certain point, which is preset by the SAD-sufferer the night before, the alarm will then sound. This method has been proven to be extremely successful at waking even the groggiest of seasonal affective disorder suffers in the morning and it makes for a more peaceful morning for their spouses as well.

The seasonal affective disorder sunrise alarm clock method works so well because it performs in conjunction with the body’s natural biorhythmic patterns. For centuries, humans have awakened with the sun and not by the measurement of time. The human body continues to be instinctively acclimated to this behavior. While most modern humans have adapted to overcome this instinctual habit, it is often much more difficult for sufferers of seasonal affective disorder to do so. If the body’s surroundings are still very dark at the time when the SAD sufferers wishes to wake up, their body will continue to believe that it is time to sleep. Since the sun rises much later in winter months than in the summer, it is really no surprise that people with seasonal affective disorder can have such a hard time adjusting.

The human eye can detect light even when the eyelids are shut. The seasonal affective disorder sunrise alarm clock method of waking works so well because the afflicted person’s eyes sense that the “sun” is rising when the light comes on. This causes the brain to send signals to the rest of the body which begins the chain reaction that results in a natural, peaceful wake from sleep as opposed to just a jarring alarm noise.

The sunrise alarm clock method overcomes the biorhythmic confusion by allowing the seasonal affective disorder sufferers body to “think” that it is really daylight, even when it is still very dark outside.

Since people that suffer from seasonal affective disorder can become quite debilitated from their affliction, prescribed treatments must be used diligently for them to remain affective. Not all seasonal affective disorder treatments come in the form of pills, however. Many physicians and researchers have harnessed the power of light to successfully soothe the symptoms that plague persons with seasonal affective disorder and report great success.Light therapy is currently not FDA-approved for the treatment of seasonal affective disorder or any of its associated symptoms.

This is mostly due to a lack of usable evidence that would be presented with a fair share of independent, double-blind clinical trials. Unfortunately, at this time pharmaceutical companies are more interested in receiving FDA approval for prescription drugs than light therapy. So the lack of FDA approval for seasonal affective disorder light therapy is no indication of its efficacy. In fact, most mental health professionals that deal with SAD consider light therapy to be standard protocol for treatment.

Light therapy for seasonal affective disorder generally consists of utilizing a light box which houses bright fluorescent lights. These lights are much more powerful than conventional household lighting and more closely mimic that of natural sunlight so contemporary household lamps will not work for the purpose of treating seasonal affective disorder patients. The light that shines from a SAD treatment light box mimics the sun so closely that human brain chemicals such as melatonin react to it in a positive manner that can diminish seasonal affective disorder symptoms. It works in such a way that the symptoms of SAD caused by the relative lack of bright light of winter are overcome by the brain’s natural reactions and ultimate chemical releases caused by warmer, brighter weather. The desired end result for the seasonal affective disorder sufferer is elevated moods and a general sense of peace and well being.

Other benefits of light therapy for seasonal affective disorder sufferers are numerous. By far, the most popular reason to opt for light therapy is that of a hesitation or outright dislike of antidepressants. Many people cannot handle or would just rather live without the side effects that can come with taking antidepressants. Additionally, many SAD sufferers would rather not take part in psychotherapy sessions and would rather monitor and control their own process. Light therapy generally gives the patient a sense of control over their own treatment and progress. Furthermore, pregnant women are more likely to use light therapy because of the possible harm that can occur to the fetus as a result of taking drugs. Finally, money will always be a factor in deciding which treatments a person will opt for when treating their seasonal affective disorder, particularly because treatments for the condition generally must continue indefinitely.

Seasonal affective disorder affects over 10 million Americans and is a serious, often debilitating medical condition that can leave those that suffer from it incapacitated from depression, chronic lethargy, and other serious symptoms. A similar phenomenon is frequently called the “winter blues” or even sometimes known as the “post-holiday blues.” Though these “blues” conditions affect millions more people than that of seasonal affective disorder, the severity of the conditions vary greatly.

Seasonal affective disorder victims start showing serious signs of distress as early in the cooler months as mind autumn. The seasonal affective disorder period can be as long as six months and can last until March, when spring arrives. The condition arises from an offset of chemicals that are naturally released by the brain as a result of being exposed to natural light, particularly sunlight. The seasonal affective disorder sufferer can experience a variety of symptoms such as sever weight fluctuation, depression, mood swings, irritability, insomnia, and feelings of suicide. Because of its severity, many physicians and researchers often recommend strong anti-depressants to seasonal affective disorder sufferers for mood stabilization.

The “blues,” particularly “post-holiday blues” are most often attributed to the absence of an immediate event to look forward to following the Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve celebrations that have just passed. Persons who have these blues may suddenly feel “dropped” into the new year with nothing to look forward to, especially when compared to the hustle and bustle experienced throughout the holiday rush. These cases of the blues almost never require any treatment other than a healthy dose of time and separation from the end of the holidays. As the winter rolls on, it is quite normal for those susceptible to the “post-holiday blues” to continue on with the more broadly termed “winter blues,” though both afflictions are very similar in nature.

As with the “post-holiday blues,” the “winter blues” are very temporary and usually easily treated with exercise, happier thoughts, and time used to get the sufferer’s mind off his/her depressed state.

While the two may seem an awful lot alike to the bystander, the seasonal affliction disorder sufferer dealing with years of SAD with seemingly no control over their behavior and thoughts would agree that they are very largely separate conditions, even though they seem much the same on the outside. If someone suspects that they have seasonal affective disorder, they should seek immediate medical help and professional treatment options immediately.