How Is Seasonal Depression Treated?
The most common and effective method of treatment for seasonal depression is light therapy, or phototherapy. During a light therapy treatment, the patient sits approximately two to three feet away from a light device that consists of white fluorescent light tubes covered with a plastic screen. The intensity of the light should be at least 10,000 Lux in order to be effective. Light therapy is very safe and is usually well tolerated by most patients. Treatments are usually performed in the morning for thirty minute sessions. Many patients notice dramatic improvement within a few days, but symptoms tend to rebound quickly with the discontinuation of treatment. Side effects may include eye strain, headache, fatigue, and insomnia. It’s best to use a commercial light box made specifically for this type of treatment. Unfiltered ultraviolet light can damage the skin and eyes. Light boxes designed specificallyfor this purpose are available without a prescription for $300-$600. In severe cases o
