[jen29]

a light box. My pdoc just wrote me a script for one. So I just went on amazon cause didn't want to deal with insurance. I bought a small one...and should be here next week some time.

Just wondering what kind of experiences people have had with it. I am really hoping this will help especially living in the snow and cold winters.

Thanks much,
Jen

[smmath]

My past therapist said that people who have Seasonal Affective Disorder benefit from using them.

[tametc]

I have a SAD light, which my pdoc prescribed, and Medicaid paid for. It has helped me. I use it year-round, and it seems to add that extra "boost" to help with depression. Actually, research over the past several years has shown that a lot of people are Vitamin D deficient, and the light box or SAD light stimulates Vitamin D production, just like the sun. Even during the summer, my Vitamin D levels are very low, so I also take a prescription dose of Vitamin D.

[NWgirl2013]

Yes! This is a great thing, I think you will like it. For me, the time of day when I use it is very important.
My habit in the very dark of winter is to turn on the light box first thing upon waking. It is set up next to my computer and reading area, & it's so easy to wile away 20-30 minutes reading the news, having a cup of coffee, while getting my dose of sunlight. And I don't feel like I'm "wasting time" fooling around on the computer. I'm getting my sun!
It's like having one more tool in your arsenal to help yourself. Can't hurt, right?!

I use a light box for about a half hour in the morning, although it hasn't helped my depression. I don't think I'm suffering from SAD this year though, it's just plain depression. I guess you could say I haven't had much benefit from using one, even when I was experiencing SAD.

[jen29]

thanks so much for the responses. I look forward to getting my light box soon and start using it

thanks again
jen

[live2ski66]

I don't use an official light box, but I have an OTT lamp with a full spectrum bulb. I also try to replace all my light bulbs with full spectrum. I use mu OTT lamp when I travel to the Compound and maybe it works.

[paynful]

When I was first diagnosed (as a child) with SAD, I remember getting a lamp with a UV blub. All I can't really remember about the experience is that it hurt my eyes and gave me a bit of a headache. I quickly discounted it. However, that was probably me being a stubborn and obstinate child.

I believe it would be helpful if I reexamined this possibility.

Does anyone mind sharing specific details of which size/strength light box that works for them? Which brand they prefer and why?

[jen29]

My pdoc prescribed a 10000 lux light box full spectrum. I can't tell u what that means. I ordered one of amazon, when I get it I will let u know.

thanks again everyone for your responses.
Jen

[bookmadness]

Hi Jen (love your Dove quote)

I have used a light box for SAD for years. Back in the day (doesn't that make me sound about 90?) when they were about the size of a hefty 6 year old, til now when you can have them tablet sized. So much nicer!

They have helped whole bunches, however, I also suffer from migraines. The bright light triggers the migraines and so I do a dance of which trouble to treat at the cost of what else (I am sure most of us know what that is like.)

Otherwise, about 30 min in the morning all year round....even after I moved away from the frozen tundra.

good luck
bookmadness

[jen29]

How can u tell if the light box is working? I know have only been on it little over a week and things take time. Just wondering in how long should I see some difference in how I feel?