s.a.d.

[humpomatics]

Hi

Recently been diagnosed as suffering from S.A.D. and have been told to use a SAD light. Can anyone tell me if these work (as they cost around �200 to buy) plus is there anything else I can do to preveny the downhill depression during December to March.

Thanks in advance :)

[Cockney_si]

You will need to get as much natural light around you as possible so as much exposure to the sun when it comes out is ideal.

SAD lights can be very expensive to buy, try a daylight bulb instead.

Lots of the energy saving ones are too dull and take too long to warm up before they give off enough light too.

If you have to go for an energy saving one go for the one that is equivalent to a 100 watt bulb it may take a while to warm up but is a lot better for you.

[HelenMac1]

Not quite sure about the price for the lamps but the herbal remedy St John's Wort is thought to be helpful in relieving some of the symptoms of SAD but ask your GP or pharmacist before taking it, as it can interfere with other drugs such as the contraceptive pill.

Complementary therapies that have a relaxing effect, such as massage and acupuncture, may also be helpful.

[coins]

Hi I always found getting going for a short walk when I started feeling down helped loads it didn't matter about the weather just being out and doing something made me feel good.

[1kayvee]

Hi, I have also been diagnosed with SAD, I bought a light box from Boots for only �59.95 which I thought was quite reasonable. It is available from their website and is called an LED Sadlight. Hope that helps.