Medical Treatment

Bright-light therapy: This is exposure to bright artificial light, brighter than usual home or office lighting. Bright-light therapy relieves symptoms for about two thirds of people with seasonal affective disorder.

• Bright-light therapy products are available for sale and range in cost from $200-500. They range from 2,500-10,000 lux. Many experts recommend that 10,000 lux be used. Only devices that filter out harmful ultraviolet waves should be used. Types of devices include light panels or boxes, blankets, and visors.



• The bright-light source should be placed at eye level. Although staring at the light source is not recommended, the light must enter the eyes if it is to work. (Simple skin exposure does not work.) An approved bright-light therapy device should not harm the eyes if used as recommended.



• About 30 minutes of exposure to 10,000 lux each day is enough to relieve symptoms in most people. Others require greater exposure, as long as 45 minutes twice a day. You may need some trial and error to find the right amount. Your health care provider will guide you.



• Properly used, bright-light therapy has few side effects. A few people have reported eyestrain, headache, fatigue, irritability, sensitivity to light, or inability to sleep (only if therapy is used late in the day).



• Certain medications make you more sensitive to light. If you are taking any of these, you cannot use light therapy. Be sure to inform your health care provider of all the medications you are taking, including nonprescription medications and dietary supplements.



• Tanning beds should not be used for bright-light therapy as they do not filter out harmful ultraviolet waves.



• You may notice improvement in symptoms within a few days, or it may take as long as 3-4 weeks after starting therapy.