Tell me more ×
Skeptics Stack Exchange is a question and answer site for scientific skepticism. It's 100% free, no registration required.
up vote 5 down vote favorite
1

Light boxes are sold as a treatment for seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and seasonal mood swings. The claims listed are:

  • Helps to ease seasonal mood swings and winter depression, and help improve sleeping patterns
  • Can ease symptoms of SAD within one to two weeks of regular use

See also A Portable Glow to Help Melt Those Winter Blues from the New York Times.

I've recently moved north where the days are much shorter than I'm used to in the winter, and I've found it a little oppressive. Is there any reason to think that using a one of these light boxes on short gray days will improve my mood?

share|improve this question
4  
Just to clarify, are you refering to a light box that is used for seasonal affective disorder? – Rob Z Jan 11 at 18:02
Yes, sorry. I'm still too much of a neophyte to know if these terms are interchangeable or if sun lamps are only for tanning beds (and I certainly do not suspect that tanning might make me feel better). – AppliedSide Jan 11 at 18:09
As far as I know the terms aren't interchangeable or least within the medical fields they aren't used interchangeably. "Sun lamps" are pretty generic in terms of meaning and a quick search showed that they can apply to a broad spectrum of applications. – Rob Z Jan 11 at 18:22
I'll modify my question to reflect this then. Thanks! – AppliedSide Jan 11 at 18:32
1  
@Oddthinking done. – Sam I Am Jan 12 at 19:40
show 1 more comment

Know someone who can answer? Share a link to this question via email, Google+, Twitter, or Facebook.

Your Answer

 
discard

By posting your answer, you agree to the privacy policy and terms of service.

Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.