I think I have SAD. Are there any other steps that can be taken to diminish this?

Question

Currently I am taking 6 tablets of SAMe (1200mg) and am doing my morning computer work in front or a 300 watt halogen light about 36 inches from my face. I have found the SAMe helpful. I have used the light for 2 days & it seems to help. So far I have not taken any precautions about UV. I Walk about 2 miles a day. I am a 70 year old man. Thanks.

Answer 1

You probably also have a low level of vitamin D. A good vitamin D supplement (at least 1000 to 2000 IU's per day of vitamin D3) would be appropriate for you.

Best wishes and good luck.

Answer 2

CONGRADULATIONS! If you are 70 yrs. old and doing this well, you are doing quite well. I hope I can when I'm 70! However, yes you can do other things for yourself. Buy one of those lamps that imitate sunlight. They run about $100 or less on sale. They are suppose to work. Also the SAMe is an excellent choice, and try St. John's Wort. But also go to a doc. of the mind, (can't spell the word for him) and find out for sure if that is what you have. There are excellent antidepressants now that can really help all the other stuff. However, I'm not sure it is wise to take SAMe and ST. John's Wort with an antidepressant. There again, you need to talk to a professional to make sure you are doing all you can do, and that there isn't any thing else wrong.

Answer 3

Some people are helped by a device that blows ionized air on them while they sleep. The device is usually sold for eliminating odors, but you could try it. I think places like Brookstone and Sharper Image have them.

You could also try a "virtual dawn" device. It starts turning on the lights on in your bedroom about 5 AM, starting very dim and slowly brightening until about 7. It simulates the natural early dawn of the summertime and gets your brain ready to wake up.

For your morning light therapy at your desk, be sure you're using a full-spectrum light that's specifically for SAD. A regular light, even if it's bright, may not be as effective. Several companies make them, including Northern Light Technologies. They have desk lamp and floor lamp models, among others.

Answer 4

I think I've had that seasonal depression stuff for years. I've never done anything for it since it wasn't bad enough to debilitate me.

I've gotten thru it knowing that the season will be over eventually and my depression will lift. I keep "positive" things around in plain sight. All light colored things will lighten up a room - throw covers on furniture, sunny pictures on the walls, etc. I try to wear light colored clothing to brighten up my spirits.

I always keep in mind that there are brighter days ahead.... The season will end