SAD Light Bulbs and Depression Lightbulbs

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is common and may be easily corrected. This page will give you an introduction to SAD Light Bulbs also known as Depression Lightbulbs which are used in light therapy. We’ll also include tips on where to buy discount SAD lightbulbs for light therapy use.

Light therapy is a healthy treatment to bring brightness back into the minds and hearts of people who need it the most. Whether used for the winter months when days are shorter, or to invigorate the moods of people who focus on brighter thoughts within a well lit environment, SAD lights are well worth consideration. In fact, it is proven that exposure to bright light causes biochemical changes in the brain which reduce or control symptoms of seasonal disorder and various reasons for depression. It is argued among people who study such things that SAD may be a normal and expected response to seasonal changes which dates back in our ancestry to times when food was scarce in the winter months and people slowed down to adapt to this to simply wait it out. While those educated in the field agree that this is a possibility, they have also observed in studies the facts that there are beneficial adjustments to circadian rhythms in people when treated in light therapy. Circadian rhythms affect body temperature, brain wave activity, cell regeneration, productivity, hormones, and other biological activity right down to the very cell.

As a result of the years of studies, there are many light fixtures and lamps available to brighten things up. The two most common types of treatment are bright light and dawn simulation.

In bright light therapy, the person in treatment is exposed to doses of 2500 – 10,000 lux while seated at a certain distance from the light source, typically 30 – 60 cm, which is one to two feet. In dawn simulation, the illumination is much less. The range is from 100 – 300 lux, which may then increase to give the effect of sunrise. For some people, one method may give better results than the other, while others find the greatest benefit in the use of both.

SAD Light Bulb Tips and Advice

Bright Light Lamps

There are several manufacturers of lights which claim to be effective for treatment of SAD, but not all are what they advertise. Simple bright light is not enough. Before purchasing a light for this use, see that it meets the specifications given by the Center for Environmental Therapeutics. The important things to look for:

1. 10,000 lux output.

2. a lens or screen that smoothly diffuses the light and filters out UV radiation.

3. Fluorescent lights that give off white light and not colored light.

4. A higher wattage rating than standard fluorescent lamps – look for 42W or 70W typically.

5. A setup which allows light to fall over the eyes, which is very important, but not to glare directly into them.

Dawn Simulation Lamps

1. From 0 – 300 lux gradually increased over about 30 minutes.

2. Can be set at a distance of around one to two feet ( 30 – 60cm )
The replacement lamps for these lights will generally be fluorescent type, but can also be LED, xenon, halogen – it is important mainly to be certain of the lux values.

Discount SAD Light Bulbs

Major discount department stores, such as Walmart, Walgreens, Best Buy carry discount SAD replacement lights. Shop and order from online, read online reviews! Some stores may carry ascetic setups, such as window replications. For these, look through catalogs, or call to ask prices.