Originally published January 4 2006
Washington State provides light therapy to students suffering from SAD
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, NaturalNews Editor
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a mood disorder associated with seasonal variations in light, and many students at Washington State, exhibiting the symptoms of the disorder, are provided with light therapy, which is designed to brighten their mood by maximizing their exposure to the full spectrum of light, much like the exposure that occurs on sunny days.
Light therapy is designed to brighten the moods of students battling seasonal affective disorder.
Stephen Greenhouse, an intern for WSU Counseling Services, said SAD is a form of depression directly related to the changing seasons.
The disorder is common in the Pullman area due to the diverse climate, he said.
To avoid SAD, students are encouraged to do anything that increases their exposure to light during the winter months, find a regular exercise routine and reduce their stress level, he said.
Mary Steed, nursing coordinator at WSU Health and Wellness, said light therapy, previously offered at Administrative Annex, is now available at WSU Health and Wellness.
"We haven't had it where students could access it easily," Steed said.
"We hope that more students use it."
For 30 to 60 minutes, students relax two feet away from a full-spectrum light, Steed said.
A full-spectrum light contains the same spectrum of light as regular sunlight.
Light therapy works best first thing in the morning, she said.
Light therapy is available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays, she said.
Appointments are not required, although counseling at Lighty Student Services is recommended.
The scientific proof of SAD is still being disputed, Steed said.
This is because the symptoms of SAD are identical to those of regular depression.
These symptoms include sadness, low energy, feeling tired, increased appetite (especially for sweet and starchy foods) and avoidance of social situations, Greenhouse said.
If people come on a regular basis, then they can buy their own sunlight lamps for their convenience, Steed said.
"We offer a variety of different items in the line of full-spectrum lighting," said Sam Young, owner of Champion Electric and Lighting in Pullman.
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