S.A.D. - Seasonal Affective Disorder

At least 20% of the population is affected by some form of winter depression. 30% of these people have Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and 70 % suffer from some level of the Winter Blues. *

Symptoms re-occur year after year, including the following: Subliminal depression resulting in lack of energy and motivation and decreased activity;  reduced immune systems, aches, pains and slow healing.

The cause, complex human brain patterns are very difficult to understand, and many factors play a roll in behavior, but we do know a few key factors.

In brief, melatonin is a chemical secreted by the pineal body in the brain. During the night cycle the level of melatonin increases, and this corresponds with getting tired and the bodily changes that occur during sleep.

The cure Light may be the cure. Light via the retina suppresses melatonin and increases the body's awake state. There are many sources of light, but dawn simulation or the bright light boxes are the most thoroughly researched form of treatment. For some, simply becoming aware of the effect of short days, and increasing your lighting intake will help counteract the problem.

The S.A.D. Treatment Room at The Sussex Lantern offers a high intensity burst of light in a short practical session. Highly fan assisted, sweating is reduced to a minimum, allowing the treatment to be integrated into a day's schedule. Privacy is assued with integrated changing facilities.

In addition, intensive Bright Light Therapy is generally acknowledged to assist in the re-metalolism of scar tissue, the re-integration of distressed skin tissue found in such cases as Eczema and Psoriasis.

* These figures are uncomfirmed by The Sussex Lantern and should be taken as a guide only.