SAD light
A new generation light fixture for the treatment of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
Most Canadians start to feel a bit down in the winter months, this is what we call having the “winter blues” it is brought on by short days and long nights. Sometimes, it seems there is no daylight at all when we go to work in the dark, and come home in the dark. When the winter blues get extreme, it can be caused by Seasonal Affective Disorder. SAD sufferers experience acute depression as a result of light deprivation. The same effect of low light levels can also be a result of traveling across time zones (jet lag), doing shift work, or working in dark environments.
Light therapy has been used successfully for those who suffer from SAD. The National Institute of Mental health, the American Psychiatric Association, the Society of Light Treatment and Biological Rhythms endorse the use of bright light therapy. Encouraging results have also been found using bright light therapy for other depressions, panic disorders, PMS, and even bulimia nervosa. Before beginning any therapy it is key to seek professional help.
Light can be administered while reading, writing, eating, watching TV, or even putting on make up. Improvements should be noticeable in less than 5 days.
People who are affected by light deprivation may have any or all of the following symptoms: weight gain, excessive tiredness, irritability, tendency to be withdrawn, lack of sex drive, loss of concentration, cravings for carbohydrates, and can find it more difficult to get up in the mornings. They may tend to put their life on hold until summer. Up to 20% of the population is affected by this disorder and women tend to be twice as likely to suffer from SAD as men.
Luminessence has developed the only unit available that can be used while doing other activities like reading or eating. The amount of light (10,000-lux) is widely spread over the viewing field, rather than being narrow, or eye-focused like most other units on the market today.
Side effects caused by bright light therapy are minimal, however overdoing the sessions have been found to occasionally cause insomnia, headaches, and agitation. Reducing exposure time will make these effects disappear.
Ordering Information
To order, or for more information, please contact us.
Phone: (403) 426-6662
Fax: (877) 426-2935
Email: info@luminessencelighting.com
