Have you ever noticed that there are times of the year where you feel really happy and at ease? Have you also noticed that there are certain times of the year where you feel depressed and miserable? The though of getting out of bed makes you feel really depressed. If you feel these differences then you might be suffering from a condition called SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder). If you are then light therapy can help you get over it.
What happens during light therapy?
I know some people have never heard of light therapy, and they are imagining an uncomfortable process, but there is no need to worry, as the process is simple. With light therapy all you are doing is sitting or lying near a device called a light therapy box. The purpose of the box is to give off light similar to what you would receive during certain times of the year or when you are outside. You can do this when you are working or at home.
Why would lack of light impact your mood?
People go through mood changes during certain times of the year or when the sun goes days without shining, and they are completely unaware that lack of light is the cause. Lack of sunlight has been said to have impacts on the way your brain produces various chemicals that are said to be linked to mood. One of those chemicals would be dopamine. When you are able to get the proper amount of light your brain produces these chemicals the way they are supposed to.
Is mood disorders or depression all light therapy can help?
Not all people suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder, some people just go in and out of depression and they do not have any idea why it is happening. You can utilize light therapy if you suffer from regular depression that has nothing to do with the time of year. You can also get light therapy if you are having trouble sleeping or if it is light sleep that does not refresh you the way it should. You doctor can also recommend it as a form of therapy to help you overcome other conditions.
Why light therapy over other treatments?
Light therapy is so beneficial because it gives people the chance to avoid having to go through other procedures that may be either more expensive to get or have potentially dangerous side effects. I would imagine no one wants a treatment that is going to make them feel worse. People want treatment that is safe, and even if there is a risk of side effects they want them to be minor at best. Light therapy offers both of these benefits and then some.
If you have Seasonal Affective Disorder or if you are suffering from some other form of depression, then light therapy is a good choice to help you get your mood back in balance the way it is supposed to be.
