{"id":19585,"date":"2022-11-09T08:51:02","date_gmt":"2022-11-09T16:51:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/hmsstg.wpengine.com\/?p=19585"},"modified":"2024-07-30T10:54:06","modified_gmt":"2024-07-30T17:54:06","slug":"can-light-therapy-help-s-a-d","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/hms.healthmatesauna.com\/?p=19585","title":{"rendered":"Can Light Therapy Help S.A.D.?"},"content":{"rendered":"

It\u2019s that time of year when our clocks fall back an hour, and the morning light creeps in earlier. While you may or may not be partial to the daylight saving practice, we know our bodies and minds are affected. Just as mornings seem to start earlier, the skies can also get gloomier. Northern states of course experience this the most, with long rainy or snowy days and constant overcast. If you\u2019re one of the 5% of the population<\/a> who experiences Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D.) it can be a struggle. However, there are some measures that can help lessen depression. But can light therapy help S.A.D.?<\/p>\n

We\u2019re here to discuss fall onset S.A.D. and how light therapy may make a huge difference.<\/p>\n

What Exactly Is S.A.D.?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Just because it\u2019s cloudy in an otherwise sunny state, you might think, oh, I have S.A.D. But having one or two off days can\u2019t be categorized as a disorder. Sure, it may take time to adjust to an earlier sundown or a rainstorm, but winter blues are fleeting. S.A.D. can last an entire season.<\/p>\n

The Mayo Clinic<\/a> shared that fall and winter S.A.D. can include symptoms like oversleeping, appetite changes, weight gain, and exhaustion or low energy. If you happen to have an existing mental challenge, such as bipolar disorder, it may feel more extreme. There\u2019s no exact diagnosis.<\/p>\n

Additionally, the symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder can vary, but studies have shown a few correlations. You could find your sleep pattern disrupted due to drops in melatonin levels. Less sunlight can also affect your serotonin levels, the hormone that impacts mood. You might also experience headaches or brain fog. Worse, you could feel withdrawn and hopeless, similar to standard depression.<\/p>\n

The good news is it\u2019s treatable.<\/p>\n

Steps To Combat S.A.D.<\/strong><\/h2>\n

People who are not prone to S.A.D. might think you can easily \u2018snap out of it.\u2019 However, for those who continually experience it season after season, it may require a visit to a doctor. Both cognitive behavioral therapy and antidepressants have been known to help.<\/p>\n

However, there are other steps you can take to address this disorder before seeing a medical advisor.<\/p>\n