Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression linked with the changing of the seasons. As the summer months turn into winter, there is less sunlight, which may cause chemical changes in the brain, resulting in depression in up to 6 percent of people in North America. There are various forms of treatment for seasonal depression, depending on the severity.
Self Care at Home
The easiest way to treat seasonal depression is at home, especially if it's a mild case. Someone with seasonal depression should spend at least 30 minutes to an hour outside every day during daylight hours. You can also set a lamp on a timer to turn on in the early morning to simulate rising sun (for a better experience, use a dawn simulator to simulate the natural light). Increase interior lighting with regular lamps and fixtures during the winter.
Medical Treatment
Medically the best way to treat seasonal depression is to use bright-light therapy. Bright-light therapy products come in a range of 2,500 lux to 10,000 lux. Many of these devices come in the form of light boxes or panels, blankets or visors.
To use bright-light therapy, make sure that your device filters ultraviolet rays. Place the device at eye level, and turn it on while standing in front of it. Remember, staring at the light is not good for you, but the light must enter the eyes for it to work. Most people only need to use the device once a day for 30 minutes at a time, but some cases require more time. Check with your doctor to make sure you are getting the right amount. This therapy has few side effects, but some users may have eyestrain, headaches, fatigue, irritability, and inability to sleep.
Medications & Herbal Remedies
If bright-light therapy doesn't work, your doctor may prescribe an antidepressant. Usually this will be SSRIs such as Prozac or Zoloft. Side effects of medical treatment will depend on which medicine your doctor prescribes. Also, researchers are studying the effects of St. John's wort on seasonal depression, as the herb increases sensitivity to light and may help some SAD suffers relieve their depression. However, since it increases this sensitivity, users of St. John's Wart should not use bright-light therapy.
