Treatment:

As with other types of depression, antidepressant medications and talk therapy can be effective.

Taking long walks during the daylight hours and getting exercise can make the symptoms better. Keep active socially, even if it involves some effort.

Light therapy using a special lamp with a very bright fluorescent light (10,000 lux) that mimics light from the sun may also be helpful.

• Follow your doctor's instructions about how to use light therapy. A common practice is to sit a couple of feet away from the light box for about 30 minutes every day. This is usually done in the early morning, to mimic sunrise.
• Keep your eyes open, but do not look straight into the light source.

Symptoms of depression should improve within 3 - 4 weeks if light therapy is going to help.

Side effects of light therapy include:

• Eye strain and headache
• Mania, less often (see: Bipolar disorder)

People who take drugs that make them more sensitive to light, such as certain psoriasis drugs, antibiotics, or antipsychotics, should avoid light therapy.

A check-up with your eye doctor is recommended before starting treatment.

With no treatment, symptoms usually get better on their own with the change of seasons. However, symptoms can improve more quickly with treatment.

Expectations (prognosis):

The outcome is good with treatment. However, some people have the disorder throughout their lives.

Complications:

Seasonal affective disorder can sometimes become long-term depression. Bipolar disorder or ideas of suicide are also possible.

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have symptoms of seasonal affective disorder. Get help right away if you have thoughts of hurting yourself or anyone else.