Treatments for seasonal affective disorder

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is commonly treated with bright light, especially in the morning. The suggested options in these episodes are:

• Use a bright-light lamp: A standard SAD lamp provides more than 10,000 lux; morning exposure is described as an established, fairly effective treatment. 1
• Increase morning light as days shorten: During fall and winter, add a little more bright light early in the day. One example offered is using an artificial light source for about five minutes before leaving home; the discussion also suggests gradually extending morning exposure as winter approaches. 2
• Consider a lower-cost light panel: A drawing LED panel around 930–1,000 lux is mentioned as a less expensive alternative to a typical SAD lamp; the speaker describes keeping one on his desk and also getting outdoor morning light. 3

The episodes emphasize that seasonal responses vary between people. For eye conditions such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, or retinitis pigmentosa—or increased skin-cancer risk—consult an ophthalmologist or dermatologist before increasing UVB exposure. 4 5