Seasonal depression, jet lag and light therapy

As many as 10 per cent of Canadians may suffer from some sort of seasonal depression caused by sunlight changes. Commonly called the "winter blues", symptoms can include low energy, excessive sleep, over-eating, weight gain and even severe depression. These effects are usually caused by what is commonly referred to as a malfunction of the body's clock. Light therapy may help these people as well as those who work shifts and those who suffer from jet lag.

As well as sending images to the brain, the eyes also tell our pineal gland, a small pea-sized gland located in the brain, when the day is over. The gland then induces drowsiness by secreting melatonin. This gland also influences moods, hunger and metabolism. (It has been determined that melatonin is used as a marker for the body's internal clock.)

Doctors have learned to treat this seasonal depression and jet lag by using a simple device called a light box. Because the timing, intensity and duration of the light all play a role in the treatment of each individual case, it is important to stress that the light therapy must be administered by a medical doctor or therapist. Some cases of corneal burns have been reported by people who have tried to treat themselves.

If you think light therapy may help you, consult your physician.