We’re in that seasonal transition again, where the days end earlier, night comes sooner and we run out of light faster. Whether you’re noticing you’re not getting enough rest or starting to feel down, light therapy lamps may help to mitigate fatigue during the winter months.
Adjusting to the time change can take a few days, and many people feel slightly out of whack as they settle into their late fall and winter routines. However, if you’ve been feeling low most days for multiple winters, it might not just be the winter blues — it could be seasonal affective disorder. The American Association of Family Physicians estimates that 4 to 6% of the population is affected by seasonal depression, with another 10 to 20% experiencing mild effects without seeking treatment.
Read more: 4 Ways to Prepare for the End of Daylight Savings
- SAD is a disorder predominant during certain months (most commonly during fall and winter) and may ease with the change of seasons.
- Common SAD treatments include medication, psychotherapy, and phototherapy (light therapy).
- Women are four times as likely as men to experience SAD, and living far north or far south may increase one’s likelihood to have it.