Do you have decreased energy or unsusual tiredness?
Is you mood a little off?
Do you feel like sleeping more than usual?
Do you have an increased craving for sugary foods?
You may have the “Winter Blues” which is common in our area during the fall and winter months due to the lack of sunlight.
The Winter Blues is a milder form of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). People with Seasonal Affective Disorder tend to experience symptoms which are more severe, and may also include symptoms such as:
– depressed mood
– excessive fatigue
– social withdrawal
– Insomnia
– decreased sex drive
– irritability
Several of our patients use “light therapy” to treat their winter blues. They expose their face to a portable LED light box for a few minutes a day. This LED light mimics the wavelengths of natural sunlight (without the harmful UV rays) and triggers the release of hormones and neurotransmitters from the brain. Most people notice an improvement in mood and energy after a week or so of light therapy.
Brio has reviewed several LED light therapy devices and recommends the Litebook Elite (www.litebook.com). They are a Canadian company with over 10 years of experience in this field. They have a strong research background, great customer service and excellent patient education through their website.
Call the clinic to learn more about light therapy for your winter blues.. If you wish to order your Litebook directly from the company, contact them at 1-877-7235483 or www.litebook.com. Brio patients can get a special discount through this CODE: BC0035
