Ever heard the phrase "winter blues"? Well for many people it is a reality. During the winter months days become shorter and the amount of light we are exposed to decreases by as much as 50%. In some areas the effect is exaggerated due to poor weather/cloud coverage.
Light exposure increases the production of Vitamin D in our skin and also modulates the release of several hormones including melatonin and cortisol. In the winter some individuals may become more fatigued, moody, have food cravings, and suffer from social withdrawal. These changes are often labeled as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) or winter depression.
For many who suffer from winter depression, treatment options are limited. Previous studies have shown that SSRI anti-depressant medications are effective, but some may be apprehensive about starting a prescribed medication.
A new study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry measured the efficacy of light therapy as a treatment for SAD or winter depression. Researchers in Canada wanted to determine if light therapy would be as effective as the antidepressant Prozac.
Even though lack of light is believed to be a key factor in the development of SAD or winter depression, no study to date had compared light therapy to conventional medication.
In the study 96 individuals with winter depression were randomized to receive light therapy alone or Prozac. Light therapy was given for 30 minutes per day with a full spectrum light box and Prozac was given at a dosage of 20 mg/day. The study was concluded after 8 weeks.
Individuals in both groups reported improvement. There was no significant difference between the treatment effects; both had a 67% improvement rate and a 52% resolution rate. Side effects did not differ either. Light therapy produced results sooner than Prozac, though after one week of prolonged use, results were equal between the two treatments.
The authors concluded that light therapy should be a valid choice for those who suffer from seasonal affective disorder. It may be less expensive and treatment can be self prescribed, no doctor needed. It is safe for use in all ages, and can be used with mild to moderate symptoms of seasonal affective disorder.
Posted by Kristopher Foster on June 26, 2006 12:31 PM
