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| Light Therapy Solutions is a SunBox Company authorized dealer. The SunBox Company has been an industry leader since 1985. Light therapy boxes are used in the treatment of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), also known as seasonal depression and the winter blues. |
| Continental U.S. (& Military) Shipments |
| Alaskan Shipments |
| SunLight Jr. Our most popular model Price Reduced! $179 |
| SunBoxDealer.com Light Therapy Solutions |
| Canadian Shipments |
Information provided by the SunBox company:
Profile
The SunBox Company has been in the sad light business for over 25 years and we have built our reputation on building
relationships, not just selling sad lamps. While other companies are only interested in selling light boxes, our goal is to help
people live healthier, happier lives by providing professional attention, to help them decide on the best light therapy product for
their needs.
In the early 1980's, Neal Owens was diagnosed with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) – a newly identified medical disorder
characterized by winter symptoms which included fall and winter weight gain, carbohydrate cravings, oversleeping, decreased
interest in normal activities, and low mood and energy.
He contacted the National Institute of Mental Health (N.I.M.H.), as they were conducting investigations into treating this newly
identified problem with an experimental treatment called "bright light therapy." Though he didn't qualify to participate in the
program (he was excluded because he was taking antidepressant medications at the time), the researchers allowed him to
borrow one of their light boxes so he could try it on his own.
Two weeks later, when he was asked to return the light box to N.I.M.H. for their study, he was convinced of its efficacy in treating
his symptoms. He asked where he could buy one, and the researchers told him there were none available commercially – they
had jury-rigged the units they were using.
So Neal made his own, using specifications for brightness and safety provided to him by the researchers. When they saw Neal's
SunBox, which was superior to their light boxes, they asked him to work with N.I.M.H. to develop a light box for their research that
was safe, durable and effective.
As people left the study at N.I.M.H., those who responded well to bright light therapy were referred to Neal so they could special-
order SunBoxes for their use at home. This is how The SunBox Company began. Founded in 1985, we were incorporated in
1987.
Not only are we the original bright light box company, but we are recognized worldwide as a leader in light therapy products.
Why Choose Sunbox?
Here are the top 10 reasons to purchase products from The Sunbox Company.
1. We have been in business for 25 years, and continue to grow.
2. We have thousands of satisfied customers.
3. We have and maintain a Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating of A+.
4. We guarantee your satisfaction.
5. We take great pride in the products we manufacture, technical knowledge we share, and the friendly service we provide.
6. We respect your privacy and do not sell your customer information to any other company.
7. We do not send out junk mails, or spam our customers.
8. We want to assure you that every purchase you make is a secure transaction. We do not store your credit card information on
our servers.
9. We want you to be completely satisfied with every item that you purchase online from SunBox.com. If you are not satisfied with
an item that you have purchased from us, you may return the item within 45 days of the order date for a full refund of the purchase
price, less the shipping & handling fees.
10. Your satisfaction is our top priority! If your SunBox Company experience is less than 100% satisfactory, call us toll-free at 800-
548-3968- we promise to make it right.
Product Information
There are many different names for light therapy devices: sunlight therapy,sunboxes,winter blues lights. seasonal affective
disorder lights, light boxes, sad lights, sad light therapy lights and others. We here at SunBox have different models like the
SunRay, the SunLight Jr, the SunBox DL and the SunSquare. These are all sad light therapy models which are designed for
seasonal affective disorder (sad) commonly known as the winter blues or the winter blahs. Read more in the Buyers Guide and
product sections of www.sunbox.com to determine which sad light is right for you.
Customer Service
Our number one goal at The SunBox Company is to provide our customers with the best quality light therapy products and the
best possible service. We do our best to make sure that every sad therapy sale and every customer is handled with courteous,
professional service
We realize that when you make the decision to invest in one of our light therapy products, you want to get it quickly. We ship most
orders within one business day of the time the order is placed.
All of our products come with a full money back guarantee (see our Return Policy in our Buyer's Guide for more details).
Testimonials
We would like to thank all of customers that have taken the time to send us the wonderful letters praising our products, customer
service, and warranty. It’s difficult to post all of the letters we receive, simply due to the length of time we have been in business,
and the amount in which we receive. Here’s is a handful of our raving reviews.
I've been using the light box for about 6 weeks now, and it seems to have made quite a difference. I've been able to cope a lot
more effectively this winter than in prior years. Less depressed, more focused, able to get more done. Thanks.
- L.R. in Georgia
Hey, I wanted to tell you about my experience with the sun square. I put it in front of my computer and the light is exactly 27 inches
from my eyes. I first used high power for 30 minutes and I started waking up at 3 am. I backed off to 1/2 power for 15 minutes but
that didnt seem like enough. I eventually settled at full power for 15 minutes. At first I wasn't sure how I would have the time to sit
still that long. after using it consistently, I wake exactly at 6am and I have plenty of time. Before, I was barely wiping the toothpaste
from my chin as I was running to the door to greet clients. Now I have a relaxed morning. I am really enjoying not having to peal
myself outta bed at the last minute anymore which I have done my entire life. The other thing I have noticed just recently is that I
seem to be less of a pessimist with a sarcastic twist. I was having some bouts of depression and not having a lot of nice things
to say. The sleep took a couple weeks, the depression I think was gradual before I really noticed a difference in the last couple
weeks. I thought about buying one of these lights for a while now. But when I saw your news clip and that great big smile on your
face I realized I needed what you had! Thank you for the opportunity to try this. I owe you big time!
- Lisa
I was skeptical, but now I'm a believer. Your product is superior!
- S.B. in Washington, D.C.
Found your warranty exceptional. That was the deciding factor. Also the reception, handling and delivery was outstanding.
- P.W. in Arkansas
We experience many winter days which are overcast, and only occasional sunlight. Since receiving our SunBox DL, it has
completely changed our lifestyle.
- R.Y. in Oregon
Very fine experience, overall. One light tube arrived shattered, but a call to SunBox brought us a very prompt, next-day replacement
delivery. Product has been shining its expected delightful benefits ever since, making me a happier person despite the deep
snow and bitter winds. One special note: Other light boxes I have tried have had very strong toxic, plastic odors. SunSation,
happily, has none. I have recommended SunBox to many of my clients who are suffering the "winter blues."
- Barbara
Very pleased with service over the years. Couldn't live without your products.
- S.M. in Kentucky
Fantastic service from your customer service rep. Great company & product. The quality of your products & service reflects your
serious, committed approach to a legitimate medical issue. Thanks.
- C.T. in Maryland
My sister used a SunBox for many years and it has helped her depression tremendously.
- D.R. in California
After 15 min. of using the light, I began singing – Have not done so in a 'long' time. Have had an energetic day – called and invited
grandchildren over!
- A.L. in Tennessee
What a difference the SunLight Jr. has made in my life! It is compact, light and great for travel.
- N.M.W. in South Carolina
I really love it...I am also impressed by how quiet it is. I expected a 'hum' frequently heard from fluorescent lights, and was
delighted not to hear one at all. I am recommending your products to several friends in our sun-starved region! Thanks.
- B.W.V. in Michigan
I have used your products for patients nearly ten years.
- Dr. L.G. in New York
You have more choices and better design (than the other companies we investigated). We are very impressed with the quality of
your product.
- N.F.A. in Illinois
You have the best products on the market.
- Dr. G.L.M. in Virginia
The sunRizr has really changed my life. Now I have so much energy and really enjoy waking up.
- K.M.W. in Connecticut
I wish I had purchased this 15 years ago. I experienced immediate (as in same day) results. I feel like a new person.
- M.P. in New York
Everyone there was friendly & helpful. It was a pleasure doing business with your company.
- J.H. in Maryland
The Psychiatry Department of University of Wisconsin Hospital use the type of box that I ordered. It helped my mood & gave me
more energy. Thank you for a great product that can really help those of us with SAD. I highly recommend your product &
company.
- Dr. R.L.G. in Wisconsin
I've spoken with customer service a few times, and always feel well treated by them.
- J.H. in Michigan
After one week I have noticed a marked change in my energy level & mood.
- R.M. in Connecticut
It's been 5 days since I started using the SunRay & it's amazing how much better I feel!
- S.P. in Massachusetts
Starting the 3rd week of October, I was already starting to feel lethargic, sad, hopeless, and overwhelmed. On Oct. 23 I used the
light box…and felt immediately better. Today is the 3rd day and I feel strong, energetic, capable, and happy. IT WORKS! THANK
YOU SO MUCH!
- J.L.K. in New Hampshire
I have been using the SunBox for 7 days and I can't believe how much better I feel. Thank you for this product!
- C.C. in New York
The expense is justified by the high quality of the product.
- R.F.C. in Pennsylvania
Thanks for everything - great product, service, warranty - also I am so glad I can get relief non-medicinally.
- J.M. in Texas
You have helped my wife through the dark days of November in Vermont. She's smiling again.
- S.M.F. in Vermont
My answer to those dreary winter days!
- L.A.L. in Idaho
My psychiatrist recommended The SunBox Company specifically.
- N.G.H. in Maryland
I'm impressed with your professionalism, customer service, and product quality.
- H.M. in Missouri
Mission
To help people live healthier, happier lives by providing excellent, reliable products at a fair price. We will strive to always be
courteous and responsive to the individual needs of our customers, without whom we would not be in business.
Experience
As the original light box company, we have more years of experience in the field than any of our competitors. Over the years, our
product line has changed considerably, as we have incorporated new technologies, such as energy-efficient electronics, lighter
weight (but durable) materials, and better quality bulbs, into our designs and have taken advances in clinical research reports,
such as higher-intensity 10,000 lux light output and tilted angle designs, into account.
Although we don't take an active role in funding clinical research studies (we feel this might taint the unbiased results of the
studies), we do keep current with the latest findings, and many of the top researchers in the field use our products for their
studies. We maintain a library of published studies for our own reference, and we maintain close contact with many of the top
researchers in the field of light therapy.
We take the feedback of our customers seriously and have used it to improve our product line and our services. Our customers
requested something small and portable for travel, we answered with the introduction of the SunLight Jr®. You asked us for
something you could use at work, and we designed the SunBox DL® for this purpose.
Seasonal Affective
Disorder Treatment(SAD)
SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER
WHAT IS SAD? What are the links between light and seasonal depression? Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a specific type
of recurring depressive illness that manifests in an annual pattern, usually from early-to-late fall and subsiding with the longer,
sunnier days of spring. Some people have the milder form, called Subsyndromal-SAD (S-SAD), also called Winter Blues, which
causes minor problems in their lives but not the total disruption that full-blown SAD causes.
This is the Winter-SAD subtype; another subtype is Summer-SAD, which occurs in the spring & summer months. Summer-SAD
is much rarer than Winter-SAD, is less well researched, and its cause is undetermined. Throughout this website, unless
otherwise noted, the term "SAD" refers specifically to Winter-SAD. The two share a distinct link between changes in natural light
and seasonal depression, however.
WHAT CAUSES SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER
Researchers aren't sure what causes seasonal affective disorder. Three main theories have been put forth, and there is
contrasting evidence both for and against each of these theories: the Melatonin Hypothesis, the Phase Shift Hypothesis, and the
Serotonin Hypothesis.
Melatonin Hypothesis The Melatonin Hypothesis argues that SAD is due to too much melatonin being secreted in response to
the long, dark days of winter. Some studies have supported this theory, while others have disputed it. Phase Shift Hypothesis
Advocates of the Phase Shift Hypothesis, proposed in 1986, contend that in patients with SAD, circadian rhythms [see Sleep &
Circadian Rhythm Disorders section] have been desynchronized to the light-dark cycle, and that appropriately timed bright light
reverses SAD Symptoms by realigning these rhythms. Again, there is evidence on either side of the debate. Serotonin
Hypothesis In the Serotonin Hypothesis, the idea is that serotonin levels in the brain are much lower during the winter months in
patients with SAD than they are either in people without SAD or in SAD patients during the spring and summer months. This
hypothesis came about from researchers observing that SAD patients tend to feel energized after carbohydrate consumption
(which increases serotonin levels), whereas people without SAD generally feel more lethargic after eating carbohydrates.
Whether serotonin is 'the cause' of SAD or not, there is currently a wide body of evidence to suggest that it does play a major role
in the disorder.
Other neurotransmitters (dopamine and noradrenaline, for example) may also be involved, as well as other hormones (thyroid,
corticotrophin-releasing hormone). The role of these other neurotransmitters and hormones, though, requires further research.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER?
The symptoms of seasonal affective disorder manifest themselves differently for different people.
The typical symptoms include decreased mood and low energy level, social withdrawal, low sex drive, anxiety, irritability, and
inability to concentrate or be productive at work.
The "classic" SAD symptoms, which are considered atypical symptoms of non-seasonal depression, are sleep problems,
including changes in sleeping patterns (oversleeping and having poor sleep) and appetite changes (increased appetite,
carbohydrate cravings, and subsequent weight gain).
In children and teenagers, the symptoms are slightly different from those for adults. These symptoms include inability to
concentrate as in adults, but also irritability, crying spells, anxiety, low energy and fatigue, difficulty in getting out of bed for school,
and a lowering of grades and self-esteem.
Because these symptoms mirror the symptoms of laziness, Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), learning disabilities, or the
stereotypical behavior of teenagers, it is important for parents to note whether these symptoms recur year after year during the fall
and winter months, and whether they go away in the spring.
THE BASICS ABOUT BRIGHT LIGHT TREATMENT RESEARCH
A lot is known about bright light treatment and light therapy research; it involves the use of a special type of light fixture that
produces much brighter light than regular indoor lighting. Visit our Research section for complete details on Seasonal Effective
Disorder (SAD) Treatment.
Resources
Society for Light Treatment and Biological Rhythms
http://sltbr.org/
Augusta Chronicle article on Winter Blues
http://chronicle.augusta.com/stories/121796/blues.html
Brighten Your Life
http://www.brightenyourlife.info/
Canadian Network for Mood and Anxiety Treatments
http://www.canmat.org/
Find Counseling.com
http://www.findcounseling.com/
JAMA article on SAD by Lynne Lamberg
http://www.websciences.org/sltbr/jama.htm
Yale University: Winter Depression Program
http://info.med.yale.edu/psych/clinics/winterdep.html
Profile
The SunBox Company has been in the sad light business for over 25 years and we have built our reputation on building
relationships, not just selling sad lamps. While other companies are only interested in selling light boxes, our goal is to help
people live healthier, happier lives by providing professional attention, to help them decide on the best light therapy product for
their needs.
In the early 1980's, Neal Owens was diagnosed with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) – a newly identified medical disorder
characterized by winter symptoms which included fall and winter weight gain, carbohydrate cravings, oversleeping, decreased
interest in normal activities, and low mood and energy.
He contacted the National Institute of Mental Health (N.I.M.H.), as they were conducting investigations into treating this newly
identified problem with an experimental treatment called "bright light therapy." Though he didn't qualify to participate in the
program (he was excluded because he was taking antidepressant medications at the time), the researchers allowed him to
borrow one of their light boxes so he could try it on his own.
Two weeks later, when he was asked to return the light box to N.I.M.H. for their study, he was convinced of its efficacy in treating
his symptoms. He asked where he could buy one, and the researchers told him there were none available commercially – they
had jury-rigged the units they were using.
So Neal made his own, using specifications for brightness and safety provided to him by the researchers. When they saw Neal's
SunBox, which was superior to their light boxes, they asked him to work with N.I.M.H. to develop a light box for their research that
was safe, durable and effective.
As people left the study at N.I.M.H., those who responded well to bright light therapy were referred to Neal so they could special-
order SunBoxes for their use at home. This is how The SunBox Company began. Founded in 1985, we were incorporated in
1987.
Not only are we the original bright light box company, but we are recognized worldwide as a leader in light therapy products.
Why Choose Sunbox?
Here are the top 10 reasons to purchase products from The Sunbox Company.
1. We have been in business for 25 years, and continue to grow.
2. We have thousands of satisfied customers.
3. We have and maintain a Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating of A+.
4. We guarantee your satisfaction.
5. We take great pride in the products we manufacture, technical knowledge we share, and the friendly service we provide.
6. We respect your privacy and do not sell your customer information to any other company.
7. We do not send out junk mails, or spam our customers.
8. We want to assure you that every purchase you make is a secure transaction. We do not store your credit card information on
our servers.
9. We want you to be completely satisfied with every item that you purchase online from SunBox.com. If you are not satisfied with
an item that you have purchased from us, you may return the item within 45 days of the order date for a full refund of the purchase
price, less the shipping & handling fees.
10. Your satisfaction is our top priority! If your SunBox Company experience is less than 100% satisfactory, call us toll-free at 800-
548-3968- we promise to make it right.
Product Information
There are many different names for light therapy devices: sunlight therapy,sunboxes,winter blues lights. seasonal affective
disorder lights, light boxes, sad lights, sad light therapy lights and others. We here at SunBox have different models like the
SunRay, the SunLight Jr, the SunBox DL and the SunSquare. These are all sad light therapy models which are designed for
seasonal affective disorder (sad) commonly known as the winter blues or the winter blahs. Read more in the Buyers Guide and
product sections of www.sunbox.com to determine which sad light is right for you.
Customer Service
Our number one goal at The SunBox Company is to provide our customers with the best quality light therapy products and the
best possible service. We do our best to make sure that every sad therapy sale and every customer is handled with courteous,
professional service
We realize that when you make the decision to invest in one of our light therapy products, you want to get it quickly. We ship most
orders within one business day of the time the order is placed.
All of our products come with a full money back guarantee (see our Return Policy in our Buyer's Guide for more details).
Testimonials
We would like to thank all of customers that have taken the time to send us the wonderful letters praising our products, customer
service, and warranty. It’s difficult to post all of the letters we receive, simply due to the length of time we have been in business,
and the amount in which we receive. Here’s is a handful of our raving reviews.
I've been using the light box for about 6 weeks now, and it seems to have made quite a difference. I've been able to cope a lot
more effectively this winter than in prior years. Less depressed, more focused, able to get more done. Thanks.
- L.R. in Georgia
Hey, I wanted to tell you about my experience with the sun square. I put it in front of my computer and the light is exactly 27 inches
from my eyes. I first used high power for 30 minutes and I started waking up at 3 am. I backed off to 1/2 power for 15 minutes but
that didnt seem like enough. I eventually settled at full power for 15 minutes. At first I wasn't sure how I would have the time to sit
still that long. after using it consistently, I wake exactly at 6am and I have plenty of time. Before, I was barely wiping the toothpaste
from my chin as I was running to the door to greet clients. Now I have a relaxed morning. I am really enjoying not having to peal
myself outta bed at the last minute anymore which I have done my entire life. The other thing I have noticed just recently is that I
seem to be less of a pessimist with a sarcastic twist. I was having some bouts of depression and not having a lot of nice things
to say. The sleep took a couple weeks, the depression I think was gradual before I really noticed a difference in the last couple
weeks. I thought about buying one of these lights for a while now. But when I saw your news clip and that great big smile on your
face I realized I needed what you had! Thank you for the opportunity to try this. I owe you big time!
- Lisa
I was skeptical, but now I'm a believer. Your product is superior!
- S.B. in Washington, D.C.
Found your warranty exceptional. That was the deciding factor. Also the reception, handling and delivery was outstanding.
- P.W. in Arkansas
We experience many winter days which are overcast, and only occasional sunlight. Since receiving our SunBox DL, it has
completely changed our lifestyle.
- R.Y. in Oregon
Very fine experience, overall. One light tube arrived shattered, but a call to SunBox brought us a very prompt, next-day replacement
delivery. Product has been shining its expected delightful benefits ever since, making me a happier person despite the deep
snow and bitter winds. One special note: Other light boxes I have tried have had very strong toxic, plastic odors. SunSation,
happily, has none. I have recommended SunBox to many of my clients who are suffering the "winter blues."
- Barbara
Very pleased with service over the years. Couldn't live without your products.
- S.M. in Kentucky
Fantastic service from your customer service rep. Great company & product. The quality of your products & service reflects your
serious, committed approach to a legitimate medical issue. Thanks.
- C.T. in Maryland
My sister used a SunBox for many years and it has helped her depression tremendously.
- D.R. in California
After 15 min. of using the light, I began singing – Have not done so in a 'long' time. Have had an energetic day – called and invited
grandchildren over!
- A.L. in Tennessee
What a difference the SunLight Jr. has made in my life! It is compact, light and great for travel.
- N.M.W. in South Carolina
I really love it...I am also impressed by how quiet it is. I expected a 'hum' frequently heard from fluorescent lights, and was
delighted not to hear one at all. I am recommending your products to several friends in our sun-starved region! Thanks.
- B.W.V. in Michigan
I have used your products for patients nearly ten years.
- Dr. L.G. in New York
You have more choices and better design (than the other companies we investigated). We are very impressed with the quality of
your product.
- N.F.A. in Illinois
You have the best products on the market.
- Dr. G.L.M. in Virginia
The sunRizr has really changed my life. Now I have so much energy and really enjoy waking up.
- K.M.W. in Connecticut
I wish I had purchased this 15 years ago. I experienced immediate (as in same day) results. I feel like a new person.
- M.P. in New York
Everyone there was friendly & helpful. It was a pleasure doing business with your company.
- J.H. in Maryland
The Psychiatry Department of University of Wisconsin Hospital use the type of box that I ordered. It helped my mood & gave me
more energy. Thank you for a great product that can really help those of us with SAD. I highly recommend your product &
company.
- Dr. R.L.G. in Wisconsin
I've spoken with customer service a few times, and always feel well treated by them.
- J.H. in Michigan
After one week I have noticed a marked change in my energy level & mood.
- R.M. in Connecticut
It's been 5 days since I started using the SunRay & it's amazing how much better I feel!
- S.P. in Massachusetts
Starting the 3rd week of October, I was already starting to feel lethargic, sad, hopeless, and overwhelmed. On Oct. 23 I used the
light box…and felt immediately better. Today is the 3rd day and I feel strong, energetic, capable, and happy. IT WORKS! THANK
YOU SO MUCH!
- J.L.K. in New Hampshire
I have been using the SunBox for 7 days and I can't believe how much better I feel. Thank you for this product!
- C.C. in New York
The expense is justified by the high quality of the product.
- R.F.C. in Pennsylvania
Thanks for everything - great product, service, warranty - also I am so glad I can get relief non-medicinally.
- J.M. in Texas
You have helped my wife through the dark days of November in Vermont. She's smiling again.
- S.M.F. in Vermont
My answer to those dreary winter days!
- L.A.L. in Idaho
My psychiatrist recommended The SunBox Company specifically.
- N.G.H. in Maryland
I'm impressed with your professionalism, customer service, and product quality.
- H.M. in Missouri
Mission
To help people live healthier, happier lives by providing excellent, reliable products at a fair price. We will strive to always be
courteous and responsive to the individual needs of our customers, without whom we would not be in business.
Experience
As the original light box company, we have more years of experience in the field than any of our competitors. Over the years, our
product line has changed considerably, as we have incorporated new technologies, such as energy-efficient electronics, lighter
weight (but durable) materials, and better quality bulbs, into our designs and have taken advances in clinical research reports,
such as higher-intensity 10,000 lux light output and tilted angle designs, into account.
Although we don't take an active role in funding clinical research studies (we feel this might taint the unbiased results of the
studies), we do keep current with the latest findings, and many of the top researchers in the field use our products for their
studies. We maintain a library of published studies for our own reference, and we maintain close contact with many of the top
researchers in the field of light therapy.
We take the feedback of our customers seriously and have used it to improve our product line and our services. Our customers
requested something small and portable for travel, we answered with the introduction of the SunLight Jr®. You asked us for
something you could use at work, and we designed the SunBox DL® for this purpose.
Seasonal Affective
Disorder Treatment(SAD)
SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER
WHAT IS SAD? What are the links between light and seasonal depression? Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a specific type
of recurring depressive illness that manifests in an annual pattern, usually from early-to-late fall and subsiding with the longer,
sunnier days of spring. Some people have the milder form, called Subsyndromal-SAD (S-SAD), also called Winter Blues, which
causes minor problems in their lives but not the total disruption that full-blown SAD causes.
This is the Winter-SAD subtype; another subtype is Summer-SAD, which occurs in the spring & summer months. Summer-SAD
is much rarer than Winter-SAD, is less well researched, and its cause is undetermined. Throughout this website, unless
otherwise noted, the term "SAD" refers specifically to Winter-SAD. The two share a distinct link between changes in natural light
and seasonal depression, however.
WHAT CAUSES SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER
Researchers aren't sure what causes seasonal affective disorder. Three main theories have been put forth, and there is
contrasting evidence both for and against each of these theories: the Melatonin Hypothesis, the Phase Shift Hypothesis, and the
Serotonin Hypothesis.
Melatonin Hypothesis The Melatonin Hypothesis argues that SAD is due to too much melatonin being secreted in response to
the long, dark days of winter. Some studies have supported this theory, while others have disputed it. Phase Shift Hypothesis
Advocates of the Phase Shift Hypothesis, proposed in 1986, contend that in patients with SAD, circadian rhythms [see Sleep &
Circadian Rhythm Disorders section] have been desynchronized to the light-dark cycle, and that appropriately timed bright light
reverses SAD Symptoms by realigning these rhythms. Again, there is evidence on either side of the debate. Serotonin
Hypothesis In the Serotonin Hypothesis, the idea is that serotonin levels in the brain are much lower during the winter months in
patients with SAD than they are either in people without SAD or in SAD patients during the spring and summer months. This
hypothesis came about from researchers observing that SAD patients tend to feel energized after carbohydrate consumption
(which increases serotonin levels), whereas people without SAD generally feel more lethargic after eating carbohydrates.
Whether serotonin is 'the cause' of SAD or not, there is currently a wide body of evidence to suggest that it does play a major role
in the disorder.
Other neurotransmitters (dopamine and noradrenaline, for example) may also be involved, as well as other hormones (thyroid,
corticotrophin-releasing hormone). The role of these other neurotransmitters and hormones, though, requires further research.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER?
The symptoms of seasonal affective disorder manifest themselves differently for different people.
The typical symptoms include decreased mood and low energy level, social withdrawal, low sex drive, anxiety, irritability, and
inability to concentrate or be productive at work.
The "classic" SAD symptoms, which are considered atypical symptoms of non-seasonal depression, are sleep problems,
including changes in sleeping patterns (oversleeping and having poor sleep) and appetite changes (increased appetite,
carbohydrate cravings, and subsequent weight gain).
In children and teenagers, the symptoms are slightly different from those for adults. These symptoms include inability to
concentrate as in adults, but also irritability, crying spells, anxiety, low energy and fatigue, difficulty in getting out of bed for school,
and a lowering of grades and self-esteem.
Because these symptoms mirror the symptoms of laziness, Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), learning disabilities, or the
stereotypical behavior of teenagers, it is important for parents to note whether these symptoms recur year after year during the fall
and winter months, and whether they go away in the spring.
THE BASICS ABOUT BRIGHT LIGHT TREATMENT RESEARCH
A lot is known about bright light treatment and light therapy research; it involves the use of a special type of light fixture that
produces much brighter light than regular indoor lighting. Visit our Research section for complete details on Seasonal Effective
Disorder (SAD) Treatment.
Resources
Society for Light Treatment and Biological Rhythms
http://sltbr.org/
Augusta Chronicle article on Winter Blues
http://chronicle.augusta.com/stories/121796/blues.html
Brighten Your Life
http://www.brightenyourlife.info/
Canadian Network for Mood and Anxiety Treatments
http://www.canmat.org/
Find Counseling.com
http://www.findcounseling.com/
JAMA article on SAD by Lynne Lamberg
http://www.websciences.org/sltbr/jama.htm
Yale University: Winter Depression Program
http://info.med.yale.edu/psych/clinics/winterdep.html