Does light therapy work?

Hi everybody,
I am a newcomer to this forum and I wanted to know if teh light therapy does really help. I think I suffer from SAD - winter blues symptoms!. For as long as I can remember living in UK, I have always gone through bouts of depression around October time. LAck of energy, low self esteem, lethargic and on occasions too much sleep - I have slept round the clock on occasions.
I had the chance of living in Spain for a 20 years and I do not remember having the symptoms there. I moved back to UK a few years back and it started. This year I have had it too early & a bit intense!
So, does light therapy really help? any other suggestions are welcome.
Cheers

Hi Cocoloco, Welcome to the forum.

Yes,my light-box definately helps.

It works for me, I'm still not the same person I am in summer during the winter but it makes life easier.

Give it a go!

HI suzie, yes ive got the brite spark,its good, but will save up for a larger lamp when I can


paul

I only have time for about 20-30 mins in the morning, so use when I get home about 4pm, (I work in a high school) I use it again. I would like a larger lightbox to give a bigger boost in the morning.

Not really, I try and use it for about half an hour as soon as I get home. Not tried to use the lamp any later, just in case it keeps me awake.


paul

ahem...... I don't think size matters.... it's the intensity.....

10,000 lux is what I have it is a daylight. I don't think it matters what make it is as long as it works.

Yes, light therapy helps! I use a 10,000 lux lightbox every day and now I can get through winter, it's unpleasant but bearable. I really notice the difference if I miss even one day, my mood dips and I'm tired. I would also recommend a dawn simulator, I find I can wake up in the mornings much more easily.

hi i lived in brazil for 5 years never had a problem..came back to england and argh..bought a small light pad ...makes a big difference...