Ask the Doctor: ‘Could my father have Seasonal Affective Disorder, and does light box therapy work?’

“I look after my father and often notice a change in him in the darker winter months. It’s like he is not his usual self and loses some of his humour and sparkle. Is seasonal affective disorder a real thing and is there anything that can help him? I have been Googling things and I see light box therapy mentioned a lot. Does this really work and might it be worth investing in one for him?”

Answer from Dr Jessica Dailey, Counselling Psychologist, Beacon Hospital

It is very common for people to feel a bit down in the winter months, sometimes called the “winter blues”. However, when someone’s mood becomes so low that it is hard for them to complete their daily tasks, this could be Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). This is a type of depression that affects people between late autumn and spring. It is more common in countries far from the equator and is estimated to affect around 1 in 15 people in Ireland. Symptoms include low mood, loss of motivation, feeling lethargic or sleeping too much, overeating, and feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness.

It is not known exactly what causes SAD, but it is thought that lower levels of sunlight in the winter months can trigger changes to the body’s circadian rhythm, as well as lowering production of serotonin (which affects mood) and raising melatonin (which affects sleep). Symptoms can range from mild to severe, and at the more severe end can include thoughts of suicide.

Have you spoken with your father about what you have noticed? It might help to know how he feels about his mood at these times, and what he generally finds helpful to lift his spirits. If he is able, a good place to start boosting one’s mood is increasing fresh air and natural light in the day time; getting out for walks in the morning and as much movement during the day as he can manage. Help him find hobbies and see loved ones that bring him joy. It is also important to eat plenty of nutritious foods to nourish the body, and in Ireland it is recommended that everyone takes a Vitamin D supplement during the winter months as it can support serotonin production.

Light box therapy is a popular treatment, and you can buy your own lightbox to use at home. The light box mimics natural light, and treatment involves sitting in front of it for about 20-30 minutes per day, usually in the morning. The scientific evidence for its effectiveness is mixed, but side effects are minimal, so it can be worth a try if it sounds appealing.

If your father’s mood does not improve or worsens, it would be best for you or him to speak with his GP about getting more help. Professional help for SAD is the same as that for other types of depression, and can include psychotherapy or antidepressant medications.

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