Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) typically affects people throughout the winter months and can cause depression and suicidal thoughts in extreme cases. People who live in rainy or dark parts of the world are more likely to suffer from SAD, and women seem to be more greatly affected than men.
Light therapy is an important tool for anyone who suffers from SAD, and patients can use a light box for treatment. A triple diamond light box mimics the sun's energy and can help with the depressive feelings that are associated with SAD. Before shopping for a triple diamond light box to boost your energy, consider the cost, effectiveness and the style of the light box to best match your needs.
Cost Of SAD Light Boxes
The cost of triple diamond light boxes that imitates the sun's energy can vary depending on the model. These light boxes can start at around $200 and go up to $500. They are usually not covered by insurance or Medicaid, but some people have been successful in obtaining insurance reimbursement, if their physician deems is medically necessary. Because of the cost, some SAD sufferers have been tempted to build their own triple diamond light box to mimic the sun's energy, but this isn't recommended because of the specific light output of commercial boxes.
Effectiveness Of SAD Light Boxes
Different types of triple diamond light boxes do a better job of mimicking the sun's energy so it's important to find one that works for you. Some are designed to work from only a few inches away while others can light up areas up to two feet away. Knowing how and where you'll use your light box is the first step to take before deciding on a model.
Styles Of SAD Light Boxes
There are quite a few different styles of SAD light boxes. Some are upright and can stand on their own, while others are small and easily moved as you travel from room to room. Some new versions are even attached to a visor that you wear, though the effectiveness of these types of lights is still being debated.
It is also possible to find light boxes with programmable timers that can mimic the rising sun and clocks. Another important thing to consider is that the light should be positioned at or above your level of sight so your light box needs to be flexible if you're planning on changing its position.
Before using light therapy to treat SAD, be sure to talk with your doctor and rule out regular depression since light therapy will be ineffective at treating forms of depression not related to SAD. Your doctor may recommend using just a triple diamond light box to mimic the sun's energy, or may add medication such as anti-depressants to your treatment, depending on how severe your symptoms are.
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