Val's story

Val first realised she suffered from Seasonal affective Disorder (SAD) four years ago. "At first, I just thought I was a summer person and the winter months weren't for me. Every September I'd start having difficulty getting out of bed in the mornings, and in the evenings I was shattered.

"I'd find myself falling asleep on the bus home from work - and then in front of the television half an hour later. I'd even nod off when members of my family were talking to me. My sleep pattern was out of kilter, but at the time I simply believed I was an over-tired, hormonal working mum - there are enough of us out there. Then, about four years ago, I found myself physically dreading the winter months. I started getting butterflies in my stomach in early September - and that's when I knew there was a real problem.

"A friend of mine, who was a nurse, had given me a leaflet about SAD. I learnt how it stemmed from the lack of bright light in winter - and I knew that was what I'd been suffering. After some research I decided to buy a light box and a dawn simulator alarm clock. Although it was an expensive purchase - the light box cost around £200 and the alarm clock £60 - within a week I noticed a difference.

"I sit in front of the light box for three-quarters of an hour every day from September to March, and for the first time in years I am able to stay awake in the evening. I can stay up to watch a film or go out to the theatre, but, more important, I have a life - something I'd been really missing."

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