Subscribe to our Telegram channel for the latest news updates you need to know.
QUEBEC, February 16 – Mild medicine is one of the tools that is increasingly being used to treat the seasonal affect disorder that many of us experience during the winter months. Marie-Pier Lavoie, a psychologist who specializes in seasonal depression and a member of the Ordre des psychologues du Québec, explains how this approach offers several benefits in cases of low depression.
What is seasonal affective disorder (SAD)?
Seasonal depression is a set of depressive symptoms that usually occur in the fall and winter and resolve naturally in the spring.
What are the signs?
The most common symptoms are obesity, low confidence and decreased interest in daily activities. There are also “unusual” symptoms that are different from “normal” depression, such as increased cravings – especially for starch and sugars – and too much sleep during the day. It’s kind of like the person wants to hibernate. Spring spontaneous, natural relief is usually unlike classic depression.
Has Covid-19 pandemics affected the phenomenon this year?
The effect of Covid-19 on SAD symptoms is difficult to assess. In fact, pandemics have affected our daily lives in many ways. For those who work from home and have more free time, the opportunity to go outdoors may be beneficial for symptoms as it may be possible to take advantage of the natural light.
How can dim light help fight this seasonal disorder?
Clear light therapy is the scientifically recognized treatment of choice for the treatment of winter SAD. The light entering the eye affects the brain to stop the production of melatonin – which causes sleep – and to produce more serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in desire and feeling.
Has this treatment become the norm in some countries?
I don’t know about the routine use of light therapy around the world, but the Scandinavian countries were among the first to use light therapy in public places and in the workplace. In Quebec, the use of bright light is common, and for several years now, the population has become more aware of the effects of changing light levels in the fall.
Are the lamps that can be bought in stores very effective?
It all depends on the characteristics of the lamp. Scientists currently agree that the lamps need to emit 10,000 lux of intense light, produce white light – bluish LED lamps should be avoided – and have a wide enough light range to handle them. as effectively as possible. As for the instructions for use, one should stand 30 cm from the lamp as soon as one wakes up, keep your eyes open and expose himself to the light for 30 minutes. It is possible to do an activity at the same time, whether it is eating breakfast, reading a book or using the computer. The lamp can then be set at a 45 degree angle. What matters is that the light reaches the eyes.
Are there any risks associated with the use of these lamps?
LED lamps can be harmful to the retina of the eye in the long run. Therefore, it is best to use white light that has not shown long-term adverse effects. If light medication is used for too long, for example an hour rather than 30 minutes each day, or in the evening rather than during the day, you may experience rest and difficulty sleeping. In terms of side effects, some people experience mild headaches, dry eyes or restlessness. In such cases, it is sufficient to switch the lamp back or reduce the exposure time.
Are there other methods that can be used to combat seasonal affective disorder (SAD)?
Of course! Several studies show the benefits of physical activity on the symptoms of depression, and when you get outdoors it is even better! Adopting good eating habits can also help you have enough energy. Keeping up with a social network – whether online or not at times of pandemics – is essential as there are fun and rewarding activities to do every day. – ETX Studios