Has anyone ever used light therapy for depression? Some say it won't work unless it is seasonal depression, but it looks like the same factors in your brain would be involved either way. I know that there's specific (expensive) light boxes I can buy, but I'm wondering if going to a tanning bed every 2-3 days might help. I've read that tanning beds are not recommended for this, but the medical field would never promote tanning beds anyway because it isn't good for your skin.
I was just wondering if anyone had any personal experience with either a light box or using a tanning bed for therapy?
2006-12-10 17:44:58 · 3 answers · asked by TPhi 5 in Health ➔ Mental Health
I have severe depression, and had asked my Dr about light therapy, he said he thought it was very helpful. Where I live it is very cold this time of year so I opted for tanning beds, I got 2-3 times per week and it helps me feel better. I suggest using the Matrix high pressurized beds, they use UV A instead of the UV B rays, they are supposed to be healthier. I also take 150mg of Zoloft every day. Getting outside period will help though, the fresh air and the natural light will be a pleasant rush for your brain and self esteem.
2006-12-10 19:28:54 · answer #1 · answered by angeleyes_13180 1 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Don't let anyone rob you. Nothing can beat sunlight. It comes from a hundred million miles away to help you. It is resposible for all life on the planet. It makes plants grow which animals eat.
You can sunbathe and it can help anyone. You can even get FREE vitamin D from it. See site below with other natural things that you can do for depression with lots of advice from a psychiatrist.
http://www.phifoundation.org/heal.html
2006-12-10 17:59:31 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 1⤋
sorry, i don't really have an answer to that but i just wanted to say that JK's answer is really idiotic and he (she) obviously has no idea what it feels like to have depression. there is just no way to "snap" out of it..just like you can't just "snap" out of diabetes..but anyway, i don't think the light therapy works but anything is worth a try to feel better lol
2006-12-10 18:17:43 · answer #3 · answered by Queen of Halloween 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋
You should just snap out of it and wake up to yourself. It works you know.
2006-12-10 17:47:45 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 9⤋