The SCC Counseling Center is excited to announce that a S.A.D. light box is now available for student and staff use in the Counseling Center!
What is S.A.D.? Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D.) is a pattern of seasonal depression. During the fall and winter months, S.A.D. can be experienced as “down” feelings not explained by day-to-day experiences. It is estimated that about 10% of the population living at latitudes like Seattle’s may experience S.A.D. (National Institutes of Health, 2023). The most typical symptoms of S.A.D. are:
Sleep and activity changes: Increased sleep duration, lower quality of rest, tiredness and fatigue
Social and interpersonal strain
Mood lifts with onset of spring in March – April
What is light therapy for S.A.D.? Because of the seasonal pattern and the fact that S.A.D. occurs more frequently in northern latitudes, it is thought to be caused by the body’s reactions to reduced natural light. Light therapy has been widely demonstrated to be an effective treatment for S.A.D.
Light therapy requires exposing your eyes to very bright light. The light box used in the Counseling Center produces 10,000-lux. This is approximately 20 times brighter than normal room lighting. At this light level, 20-30 minutes a day is an appropriate treatment. Most people who benefit from light therapy experience positive changes within 2 weeks of daily treatment. Daily, or almost daily, treatment is likely to have the best effect.
It is recommended that you consult your physician before beginning light therapy, especially if you:
Have a health condition
Have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder
Have been told you must wear sunglasses in sunlight
Have a history of eye conditions or problems
Are taking a medication or supplement that causes light sensitivity
Please speak to Carrie at the Counseling Center front desk if you are interested in using the S.A.D. light box.
Location: FOSS 5251
Phone Number: (206) 546-4594
Hours: Monday – Thursday 8 AM – 5 PM | Friday 8 AM – 4:30 PM | Closed on Wednesdays from 1-2 PM.
