My Story: Kate's Severe Case of Winter Blues

My Story: Kate's Severe Case of Winter Blues

Kate lives in rural New England, and suffers from Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D.). A long-time HappyLight® user, she talks about her struggle with S.A.D. and how light therapy has had a positive impact on her life. 

"Fall in rural New England conjures up the familiar images of vibrant foliage; roadside stands dotted with pumpkins and a crisp cool feeling in the air. But for me, early as September is marked by the waning hours of daylight and dreaded anticipation of the shorter gray days ahead.

Light boxes have helped me throughout my annual bout of S.A.D. for a number of years.

My usage spans my early S.A.D. diagnosis in high school and later on the magnification of S.A.D’s symptoms postpartum as a young mother giving birth to a February baby. There’s a definitive cumulative effect to seasonal depression which makes late winter a knockout punch of dread and make me want to hibernate even on the rare sunny day.

I have tried the larger light boxes including ones that literally look like a giant box filled with a pattern of fluorescent tubes - they are like bulky behemoths that feel like they are shouting back at me with an overbearing presence in winter. But light boxes from Verilux® have a pleasing design that’s easy for me to incorporate into my early morning routine. The smaller design is no less powerful and I find in the throes of winter it’s hard to overdo my daily light therapy session. 

Sitting in front of the bright white light gives me a good feeling. It is a sensation I look forward to and know it’s contributing to an improvement in my overall mood, energy level, and positive outlook."

See Kate's HappyLight






Also in Light Reading

Which HappyLight is right for you?
Which HappyLight is right for you?

2021 is here, and like the rest of us, you're no doubt staying safe indoors social distancing, but that means you're probably missing out on critical vitamin D like never before. At Verilux we know a thing or two about using artificial light to help get you back on track by choosing the right lamp from our line of HappyLights®. Learn how light therapy can help you start feeling better and sleeping soundly to go from sad to happy. 

View full article →

Woman reading ebook
Self-Care Tips For Isolation During The Holidays

By now it’s clear: We’re going to remain isolated (at least somewhat) through the holiday season. Isolation may be the “new normal,” but to most of us it will never actually feel normal (or comfortable). And it may be particularly trying during the holidays, when we're used to spending more time with friends and family. If you could use a little bit of a boost though, or some help with self-care during the strange holiday season to come, read on for a few helpful tips!

View full article →

Tips For Going Back to School Remotely
Tips For Going Back to School Remotely

This year has been a bit strange. OK, maybe a lot strange.. and going back to school doesn't necessarily mean the same thing this fall. So, while having a great set up at home for studying was important before, it's even more so now. Here are a few things that won't break the bank, but are definitely worth getting to make your study space the best space.

View full article →