Question:
Has anybody with non-seasonal depression benefited from light therapy
(natural or artificial light)?
Answer:
I used a SAD lamp for the first time last fall. Possibly it was a
coincidence but it was the first year in memory that I didn't go into a
fall depression. I should explain that my depression is an ongoing thing
that is usually under control with meds. One thing I can credit the lamp with for sure is a dramatic improvement
in my ability to fall asleep.
i had light therapy recommended to help with my sleep disorder,
along with my depression. certainly did nothing to help my
sleep, and the whole regimen had me so sleep-deprived i can't
say whether it helped my depression. basically, i guess that its effect depends whether your chemical
response to light contributes to your problems. you'll never
know until you try it.
now is a good time to find out, though, since strong morning
sunlight is freely available, assuming you're in the northern
hemisphere. better now than waiting until you need an expensive
lamp.
I am day two of natural light exposure. I am going to do an hour a day
for a couple of weeks and if I get a response try to taper back to
about 30 minutes a day.
I'll post again in several days to update.
