Does light therapy have side effects?
Even though this type of treatment is generally very safe, negative effects may occur. As a consequence of light therapy, patients can complain of irritability, headaches, eye strain, sleep disturbances, and insomnia. Mild visual side effects are not unusual but remit promptly.
Can SAD lamps have side effects?
It’s rare for people using light therapy to have side effects. However, some people may experience: agitation or irritability. headaches or eye strain.
Can SAD lights damage eyes?
Your eyes should remain open throughout the treatment session. Damage to the eye’s retina is a theoretical risk, but it has not been found to be a problem thus far. Nevertheless, you should take precautions to get your dose of light as safely as possible.
Can light therapy make you irritable?
In some people, the use of a light box may result in increased irritability. You may find yourself losing your patience with others, becoming annoyed, and unexpectedly snapping at them. This may have negative impacts on professional or personal relationships. There can be other mood changes as well.
What is light therapy for Seasonal Affective Disorder?
Light therapy is a way to treat seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and certain other conditions by exposure to artificial light. SAD is a type of depression that occurs at a certain time each year, usually in the fall or winter. During light therapy, you sit or work near a device called a light therapy box.
Can you use a SAD light too much?
Overuse of a SAD lamp can produce insomnia or other side effects. Follow manufacturer recommendations for position. Your lamp should come with recommendations for how close you should position yourself to it. This is very important, as your distance from it will affect the lamp’s lux capacity.
What deficiency causes seasonal affective disorder?
Now, a new study led by researchers from the University of Georgia associates low vitamin D levels with greater risk of seasonal affective disorder. Share on Pinterest Researchers say vitamin D deficiency could be a driver of seasonal affective disorder – a form of depression that occurs during the winter months.
What is seasonal affect?
A seasonal effect is a systematic and calendar related effect. Some examples include the sharp escalation in most Retail series which occurs around December in response to the Christmas period, or an increase in water consumption in summer due to warmer weather.
What is the best sad light therapy?
Bright light therapy, commonly referred to as phototherapy, has been documented in multiple studies to be an effective treatment of SAD. A study completed in 2009 revealed that as little as twenty minutes of light exposure can improve the mood of those suffering from SAD.
How do I deal with seasonal depression?
Get Moving. As it does with other forms of depression, exercise can help alleviate seasonal affective disorder, too. Outdoor exercise would be most helpful. But if you can’t exercise outside because it’s cold or snowy, choose a treadmill, stationary bike, or elliptical machine close to a window at the gym.
What are the statistics of seasonal depression?
Here are the latest statistics on depressive disorders with seasonal patterns: Approximately 5% of the U.S. population experiences seasonal depression in any given year. Four out of five people with seasonal depression are women.