Questions about SAD

If you suspect you may have seasonal affective disorder or you have been recently diagnosed you may have many questions about your illness and treatment. You may find what you are looking for in this section.

• Do I have Seasonal Affective Disorder?
  Telling the difference beween classical depression and Seasonal Affective disorder (or SAD) is not always easy but here are some questions to consider.
  
  
• How to Build a Light Box
  Building your own light box for SAD - is it feasible? Is it safe? The components are available but how do you go about it?
  
  
• Can a sunbed help SAD?
  The light emitted from a sunbed is bright enough to help people with SAD (Seasonal Affective disorder) to feel more cheerful, but it should nt be useda s treatment.
  
  
• Is Blue Light better than white light for SAD?
  Blue light therapy is being promoted over white by some companies but it's not proven that blue light is as safe and effective as light boxes using white light for SAD (seasonal affective disorder).
  
  
• What supplements are useful for SAD?
  Some supplements may be helpful in the treatment of SAD, while others which have been well-publicised do not have any scientific evidence to support mprovement in symptoms.
  
  
• Can aromatherapy help with SAD symptoms?
  Many essential oils have anti-depressant properties and can be used in aromatherapy to ift mood in winter. Those who suffer from SAD may be helped by these in combination with other therapies.
  
  
• How should I decorate my home to help reduce SAD symptoms in winter?
  You can decorate your home and make it lighter to help improve symptoms of seasonal affective disorder ( SAD ).
  
  
• Should I install full spectrum lighting at home?
  Full spectrum lighting may help with some of the symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder ( SAD ) if you have a mild form. But you may need light therapy too if you have any serious symptoms.
  
  
• How do I explain SAD to others?
  Some people with SAD are worried about others finding out about their Seasonal Affective Disorder diagnosis and judging them harshly because of it.
  
  
• What makes Serotonin?
  Serotonin makes us feel good yet our levels are lower in winter. How can we make more of it?
  
  
• Could a Light visor help?
  When you need a portable solution for light therapy you could try a light visor.