Health Forums

Posted: 26 September 2006 at 5:13pm | IP Logged

I had never heard of S.A.D until Madz made an article about it for madmums. I remember reading it and comparing it to my winter blues last year. I was just wondering how long it took for symptoms to show?

I have been keeping a written diary on my feelings. I seem to be having many more up days than I am bad, and because of this havent yet spoke to a doctor. However, Ive noticed that on my bad days the weather is miserable and the days are dark. Does S.A.D settle in over a period of time? Could this be the start of it?

I was thinking of looking into getting a lightbox, should I do this or speak to my doctor first. I can tick yes to all the check points on Madz's article, yet when it is sunny, like on a day like today, I am bright and breezy getting my jobs done feeling positive. Yet on a down day I dont want to talk or do anything, I feel tired and the smallest thing upsets me.

For those that dont know about S.A.D you can read madz's article HERE

Posted: 26 September 2006 at 7:25pm | IP Logged

it sounds like sad

my sister has worse depression at this time of the year

you can rent light boxes can't you? 

Posted: 26 September 2006 at 7:41pm | IP Logged

Argh I am an unhappy lady! I had written out a long response to this thread at about 6.15 and as I pressed post, my darling son switched the computer off! Argh! So I'll try again!

First I am glad my article has helped you. SAD is quite comman, more so than people realise and I have come across many sufferers and I am one myself.

Seeing your gp might help and I wouldnt dismiss the idea but if your gp doesnt think you have SAD or that a lightbox will work dont discount the idea yourself. Lots of people in the health proffession just dont take SAD seriously. I have dealt with litterally hundreds of SAD sufferers, I am one myself and I know Dizie wont mind me mentioning her name in this too.

I use a lightbox and I find it really helps me. It comes out when the clocks change and I spend 30 minutes with it each morning. I know so many people who they have helped. They are not cheap, I admit but the benifits outway that cost. They are also avaliable on a 30 day money back trial from my old company so there really is no risk involved. They also do discounted models on returned or old stock which is in brand new condition!

I have a book I will send you which is really helpful, I need to check I have your address and if I do it will be in the post tomorrow or thursday! It was our bible where I worked and we quoted from it all the time.

Look on www.outsidein.co.uk and you can email or phone them for advice. Tell them I refered you. They are really helpful and will answer any question you have on the subject. They are the leading manufacturer in the world in light therapy and really are experts!

It sounds to me like you do have SAD. I find the same as you that I get low on dull days and happier on bright days and that at this time of year I can feel myself going downhill. If you have any questions just ask me, I hope I have been of some help.

Posted: 26 September 2006 at 9:01pm | IP Logged

My mum sounds like you and has sads too hun.  Maybe it be worth talking with your doctor.

My mum got one of those lamps that are meant to help with sads.  Goodluck xx

Posted: 26 September 2006 at 11:17pm | IP Logged

Steph most of those products are made by outside in (aka Lumie) which is the company I mentioned and used to work for.

I use the body clock (The advanced) and Edward has the Junior Lumie Bodyclock too which is a life saver! I also have a sunray max lightbox and I used to have a brightspark above my desk at work. My mum, nan and some friends are now all proud light therapy owners.