I started taking anti-depressants in 1997. It wasn't too bright a move. The medication made me tired and passive, although it calmed my mind and made me less irritable. I did have an excuse -- Wisconsin was cold and dark, and Appleton was interpersonally isolating. Now, 13 years later, I have moved to Redmond and haven't taken a Zoloft since I got here. So far so good!
It's not clear how many sunny days there are in the average Redmond/Seattle year. One website says 71, another says 151. Either way, when it's cloudy, it gets awfully dark here. People in areas such as this are vulnerable to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
Now for some preventative measures. I have bought a light therapy box. A light therapy box, used 30 minutes a day each morning, can provide 10,000 lux of light and can boost serotonin levels as well as regulate the production of melatonin. These chemicals help control mood and sleep.
Walking outside for 30 minutes even on a cloudy day can also provide 10,000 lux of light. I have been going out with Ace for a walk in the park or along the Samammish Trail every morning. We go for about 20 minutes. Ace loves it.
My light box also has an ionizer. There is research that shows ion therapy can also improve mood. My light box is manufactured by Skyeffect Technology. I plan to use it for 30 minutes every morning.
No comments:
Post a Comment