Can you make your own light box to treat SAD ?

Light boxes are quite expensive. Is it feasible to build your own? And how do you build one?

The best light boxes are generally those which have been commercially produced and which have undergone extensive scientific testing. That's the safest route to take and in the end you may not save much money by buying the components separately.

If you decide to make your own light box, you need to ensure that the box

• is safe electrically
• filters out UV light
• has a way of reducing flicker
• emits sufficient light (2,500 to 10,000 lux) at 1 metre/3 feet distance
• has bulbs which are set behind a diffusing screen

If you're in doubt about your abilities to build this safely, don't do it! If your treatment does not work, you will be left to wonder whether it is your box at fault or that light therapy is not an effective remedy for you.

Better to be safe than sorry. Invest in your own health and buy or hire the equipment you need from a reputable manufacturer.  You may even be able to borrow the equipment from some clinics. If you're not sure if light therapy will work for you, look for a light box company which will allow you to trial the equipment and return it for a refund if it's not for you.

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