A depression associated with the late fall and winter seasons, seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is caused by the lack of light people experience during the winter months, from the sun setting earlier in the day to simply not getting outside because of the cold.
According to Mental Health America, SAD affects about five percent of the U.S. population, with another 10-20 percent having mild SAD-like symptoms.
Light therapy helps to ease the discomfort of SAD and typical “wintertime blues” by mimicking sunlight with a certain amount of lumens.
Lumens are a unit of measurement for light output in a given area, simply referring to the light’s intensity.
Here are five lights to try.
Duronic SADV1 Light Therapy Box
At 10,000 lumens, Duronic’s light therapy box is a compact and lightweight tablet that can also be mounted to the wall. Its stylish design includes silver metal accents, ensuring it’ll look good either on your wall or at your desk. Use it for 30-60 minutes a day to see a change in your mood. // $71
Carex Daylight Classic Plus Bright Light Therapy Lamp
This daylight lamp provides the maximum recommended 10,000 lumens with glare-free white light. It comes with an adjustable stand and can be moved with flexible angles. It has two light settings to choose from, and blocks 99.3 percent of UV light. The lamp can also be used to help with jetlag, circadian rhythms and low energy. // $114.95
Verilux HappyLightThe compact-size Verilux HappyLight is a practical option for those who aren’t looking for a large light, but want something they can place anywhere. It provides 10,000 lumens and has high and low settings for light preferences. // $79.95
Aura Daylight Therapy LampBeat the wintertime blues with this therapy lamp that has an adjusting dial so that you’re in full control of how much light is emitted. The lowest setting is 3,500 lumens, and the highest is 10,000 lumens. The unit also adjusts to an 85-degree or 70-degree angle for positioning and has a built-in timer that can be set at 10-60 minute intervals. It also automatically shuts off when the treatment is complete. // $98.89
Alaska Northern Lights Bright Light Therapy box
If you want to reap the benefits of light therapy without having to always be near the light source, Alaska Northern Lights’ therapy box may be the right fit for you. The box emits the full 10,000 lumens from 2 feet away and comes with a seven-year warranty. // $299.77
