Two types of seasonal affective disorder have been identified: winter SAD and summer SAD - winter SAD being far more common. Characteristic is a reduction in mood and/or energy during periods of reduced hours of sunshine and daylight (even during the summer). Common symptoms include depression, increased sleep, increased appetite, weight gain, and carbohydrate craving. SAD often responds to bright light therapy.
Center for Environmental Therapeutics Website (http://www.cet.org/) represents an independent, non-profit professional agency dedicated to accurate education and research.
• Their website includes an "Automated Online Confidential Diagnostic Self-Assessment" offered anonymously and free of charge. The computer will score this.
• In addition, since some people are trying light therapy without professional guidance, their "Ask the Doctor" column is intended to answer questions even most doctors can't answer. You can also ask your own question in this anonymous forum.
• Although simple in design, home construction of light boxes is discouraged because of the danger of excessive irradiation. Some amateur assemblers have experienced corneal and eyelid burns. However, even in the selection of a commercially manufactured apparatus, the patient must be vigilant . Suggested criteria for light boxes are listed on the Center for Environmental Therapeutics Web site.
I recommend this website because many people do not have accurate information about SAD and its treatment. In addition, since the critical design features of light boxes have not been specified or regulated by federal authorities, people should seek documentation from their clinicians regarding the manufacturer's safety and effectiveness of any apparatus under consideration.
Author's Bio
Dr. Linet is comfortable using psychotherapy or psychopharmacology. He has expertise treating anxiety, depression and disruptive/acting out behavior - whether caused by psychological problems, ADHD, bipolar or other mood disorders. He wrote "The Search for Stimulation: Understanding ADHD," a link to which can be found at www.LesLinetMD.com. Dr. Linet appeared on television programs featuring OCD and Tourette Syndrome. Internet links to webcasts on various topics are on www.LesLinetMD.com. He is one of approximately 2000 physicians with a federal waiver to prescribe buprenorphine for narcotic addiction. He also counsels families and patients in handling substance abuse as well as physically or emotionally abusive relationships.
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