Seasonal affective disorder, often referred to as SAD, is a form of depression that is associated with a lack of sufficient exposure to sunlight. The condition is usually treated through a combination of different approaches, including light therapy (using a special light box providing balanced/full spectrum daylight), regular outdoor exercise (even on cloudy days), balanced diet (high in protein and omega-3, low in simple carbohydrates) and psychotherapy.
A common form of psychotherapy used in the treatment of SAD is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). This form of therapy is often utilized in cases where light therapy is ineffective. Medication such as antidepressants may also be necessary.
What is a Light Box?
A light box is one of the most common forms of treatment for SAD and fluorescent light boxes containing high-intensity light may be placed upon one's desk at work, beside the computer, or in a lounge or other location that the patient frequents. Some light boxes are very small and thus easily portable, while others are larger and designed to remain stationary.
The person receiving light therapy should ideally sit approximately three feet away from the light box and it's important to avoid staring directly into the light, as this may result in eye damage. More powerful light boxes require shorter exposure time, while less powerful light boxes require a longer exposure time.
What is a Dawn or Dusk Simulator?
Many people enjoy waking as a result of visual stimulation like sunlight; many find this method to be soothing and preferable over waking to the the irritating sound of an alarm clock. This is why it is usually much easier to get out of bed when the sunlight is coming through the blinds, whereas it can be difficult to wake up on a dark winter morning.
The dawn simulator works similarly to an alarm clock, except the device uses light stimulation rather than audio stimulation. Light is gradually increased in terms of brightness during a period of about 30 minutes before one wakes up and acts as a natural suppressant of melatonin (which is a recognised factor in SAD.)
Artificial dusk simulation provided by the device is identified in helping the SAD sufferer to experience good quality, deep sleep.
Benefits of Dawn/Dusk Simulators for Treating Seasonal Affective Disorder
While the traditional bright light therapy is best for those with more intense SAD symptoms, the dawn/dusk simulator is identified as a more effective option for patients who are experiencing milder symptoms. It can also be beneficial to those who experience difficulty when waking up in the morning during the winter months.
As many younger SAD sufferers dislike spending approximately two hours per day beside a bright light box, teenagers may prefer to use the dawn simulator as an alternative. Mood, appetite and sleep patterns are all helped through the use of the dawn simulator and in a recent research study on teenagers with SAD, all twelve of the participants found the device made waking up much easier.
As highlighted above, a combination approach is usually the best form of treatment for those suffering from seasonal affective disorder. Many people can benefit from using a dawn simulator, including teenagers, those struggling to wake up and in milder forms of SAD.
Source:
Marshall, F. & Cheevers, P. (2002) Coping with SAD London: Sheldon Press.
Kate Le Page - Kate Henning-Le Page writes about eating disorders, body image and recovery issues. She specializes in anorexia recovery.
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