wilyone 11 Posted January 12, 2017 Share Posted January 12, 2017 I wanted to post here in case it can benefit anyone else. I've struggled with depression for about 25 years. I went to an ivy league college and had to drop out for a semester because I had zero motivation to do anything and hated myself. But I turned myself around and became a generally happy person for the past 20 years. Moved back East a few months ago and noticed depression creeping back in, combined with a lack of confidence and general despair. I had no reason to be unhappy. I wondered if it had something to do with the lack of natural daylight out here so I bought a light and ion therapy lamp on Amazon for about $50 and it seems to have made a huge difference. I've used it for a few weeks, about 30 minutes a day in the morning. I feel much more positive, optimistic and extroverted. It could just be in my head but I don't think so. Anyhow, I've read some posts around here from people contemplating suicide, so I felt an urge to post this in case it helps. Link to comment
Jeffbobo Posted January 12, 2017 Share Posted January 12, 2017 Research has shown that there's a link between vitamin D deficiency, specifically vitamin D3 (which is obtained through sunlight) and depression; so I don't think it's just in your head. Many people that live in northern regions of the US have this deficiency. Link to comment
Fudgie Posted January 12, 2017 Share Posted January 12, 2017 I live in NE United States and winters can be brutal here. Good for you for finding a lamp that works! My brother uses one and loves it. I do not have a lamp but I do take Vitamin D3 daily, at least 2,000 units a day. It definitely helps, especially in the winter. Link to comment
danewillow Posted January 12, 2017 Share Posted January 12, 2017 I also recommend looking at your vitamin D level. You can get it tested by your doctor. I take 50,000-75,000 IU every week (my blood level was 1/3 what it should be). It has made life so much better for me. Every winter was getting worse. I don't think I would still be alive today without taking supplements. Link to comment
Wiseman2 Posted January 12, 2017 Share Posted January 12, 2017 I wondered if it had something to do with the lack of natural daylight out here so I bought a light and ion therapy lamp on Amazon for about $50 and it seems to have made a huge difference. ] Link to comment
wilyone 11 Posted January 12, 2017 Author Share Posted January 12, 2017 Wow that chart says it all. In the past, I don't think my depression was linked to sunlight, because I lived in a sunny climate and experienced the same malaise throughout the year. It didn't occur to me that I might be susceptible to SAD too. The days are incredibly short here, and the tall buildings block even more of the light. But I feel back to normal with the light box. Also, blue light is supposedly good for the complexion, which is another reason to be happy!! And yes my vitamin D levels are low so I will start popping supplements too. Thanks. Link to comment
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