What can you do to minimise the effects of SAD?

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   Precious Williamsposted 14 years ago

   I had SAD for seven years before my GP noticed that I was always in his surgery at the beginning of October.  It was a relief when it was diagnosed, although over the years, different GP's and psychiatrists have reacted with anything from sympathy, disinterest or complete contempt. My favourite comment came from an eminent psychiatrist in London who asked me what caused me to be depressed.  I said "the weather". "Well there's nothing I can do about that" he said "what else?". I was 'treated' by him for nearly a year, but as you can imagine we never did have a very good relationship.
   
   I don't like to take anti dperessents, an infra-red lamp has never helped that much. I know the signs and I manage the condition, but I would be interested to hear from anyone what they do.

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      Marisa Wrightposted 14 years agoin reply to this

      An infra-red lamp?  I've never heard of that as a remedy.  You need a light therapy box that gives off a really bright light, which mimics natural light.  It needs to be white light and 10,000 lux.

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   2. 67

      TheGlassSpiderposted 14 years agoin reply to this

      A. Your GPs generally won't be able to deal with this properly - and most psychiatrists won't either. Find yourself a Licensed Mental Health Counselor; they will have been trained to accept and treat this diagnosis. One thing your GP CAN do is determine the level (and type) of vitamin deficiency you have (definitely check for vitamin D deficiency, but others as well).
      
      B. I know it's extreme, but many clients experience significant life changes simply from moving to a sunnier, warmer region. If this is not an option, the artificial lights (2500 LUX) that simulate sunlight will be helpful, probably best to use them in the early morning - make sure to use as directed (i.e., not for TOO long - such exposure can cause the OPPOSITE of depression - mania).
      
      Reference
      
      Maxmen, J. S., Ward, N. G., & Kilgus, M. (2009). Essential psychopathology & its treatment. New York, NY: W. W. Norton & Company.

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   3. 61

      nikki1posted 14 years agoin reply to this

      How r u feeling?

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   4. 61

      nikki1posted 14 years agoin reply to this

      How r u feeling?

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2. 78

   Uninvited Writerposted 14 years ago

   Taking 7,000 iu's of Vitamin D a week is good for that.

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   kimberlyslyricsposted 14 years ago

   oh gosh precious I wish I knew more about this but I will try to look into it but they have just came out with an approved lamo, actually small that sits in your room and somehow resembles the exact benefits as though you were in the warmth/sun all day.  I promise to look into further for you.  Stay strong, you have people here that care and you can write me anytime.  One might say I have some experience as a patient too.  Good Luck, just keep talking, cheeers

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4. 82

   Rafiniposted 14 years ago

   Lots of bright lights - during the winter I tend to use brighter light bulbs, have all lights on in the house, and leave them on the entire time I'm awake.
   
   Exercise is also good.
   
   Lately I began taking St. Johns Wort, Ginseng, and Fish Oil tablets.  Its best to ask your doctor about these though, just to make sure its okay to take. (I was most worried about the fish oil cuz of an allergy to shell fish)

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   Precious Williamsposted 14 years ago

   Thank you for all your suggestions. I am glad that the days are getting warmer and lighter. Shame that the summer seems to disappear so quickly.

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6. 67

   karmicfillyposted 14 years ago

   I read a book by Christine Northrup and in one of the chapters was the mention of SAD.  I cried with joy when I heard of it since I knew something was not right with me and the seasons. 
   
   First thing I did was call the referenced folks at The Sunbox Co. and ordered a light therapy box.  I have now used it for over 11 years and it helps every time.  You must use it up to 30 minutes a day in the morning and it should be between 12-18 inches from your eyes.  I keep mine next to the computer and while answering emails it is filling my requirement of light.
   
   Vitamins help some too but most of it should be the light from the box itself.  You must be consistent since once I missed a day I could feel it coming back on.  I tend to start in September/October depending on weather.  The quality of light starts to diminish about that time and I use it until April when we finally have nice longer sunny days.
   
   Good luck to you.

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   nikki1posted 14 years ago

   does this help?
   http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ch2p4x-nWTc\
   
   along with a yoga day is recommended, do you
   like to walk, spend the day with family in the
   sunshine and fresh air, just having fun and
   laughing

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