One study looked at the impact of travel on a group of tourists with SAD and found that travelling to a warmer climate can have a restorative effect. The researchers propose a new concept of “Tourism Therapy” (which is definitely an idea we can get behind).
If you can’t get away right now, there are plenty of other things you can do to get the most out of the daylight hours at home. Positioning your desk by a window, getting outside as much as you can, and getting regular exercise can all help to maximise your sunlight exposure and limit the effects of the winter blues.
Do SAD lamps actually work?
SAD lamps have exploded in popularity in recent years, as more of us learn about the impact of darkness on our minds. SAD lamps, or light boxes, work by delivering bright light designed to mimic the effects of sunlight. Lightboxes vary in intensity, and everyone’s needs will be different, but it’s generally recommended to use one for 20-30 minutes within the first hour of waking up, keeping the lamp about arm’s length away from you, and not looking directly into the light.
But do they actually work? According to Dr. MacLaren, “SAD lamps do work for some people with SAD, but they’re not effective for everyone. If you are considering using a SAD lamp, it can be useful to speak to your doctor first, and look at the various options available, as there are lots to choose from.”
Wherever you fall on the winter blues spectrum, there are steps we can all take to look after our minds as winter approaches, whether that’s getting outside for walks (even when we really don’t feel like it), making time for movement, or sticking to a regular bedtime. Most importantly, we can be a bit kinder to ourselves, and remember that feeling a little blue this time of year is perfectly normal and okay.
If you think you might be experiencing Seasonal Affective Disorder, make sure you seek professional guidance. Your GP should be able to refer you to local services and help you to manage your symptoms.
