Anonymous asked this question on 4/25/2000:

I am currently under the care of a psychiatrist and am taking Luvox, Risperdal and occasionally some Xanax. Major anxiety and depression here!! Anyway one thing that has me wondering is my actual work environment. I have a sales job in a very quiet worse than dreary office. Previously I had been a nanny and loved it! I was outside all the time getting a tan and getting paid for it. But now, it's very different practically falling out of bed only to spend bright shiny days in an off white room with no, (and I mean no sunlight) at all. Could I possibly benefit from light therapy even thought my depression may not be limited to the change in seasons. It is interesting to note that my thoughts do turn to dreams of beaches, pools and suntans around this time. Here in Chicago the weather and landscape can look pretty depressing itself. What do you think-a phototherapy lamp helping?

biolightman gave this response on 4/26/2000:

Hello Anonymous,

There is NO question that a lack of sunlight is directly related to moods. Light therapy is no longer "just for winter depression(SAD)."

We live in a solar system. The earth revolves around the sun. All life on earth has evolved under the sun's radiant energy. Humans are much like solar batteries that receive their "electrical" charge from the sun.

When we step indoors we disconnect from this VITAL energy source. Just as malnutrition is the lack of proper nutrition, mal-illumination is the lack of proper "wavelengths of radiant energy" necessary to keep our body's electrical nervous system properly maintained. Sunlight not only ENERGIZES our nerves and brains it REGULATES our hormonal secretions that effect everything we think, say and do!

Melatonin, a hormone secreted by the pineal gland (the body's light sensing meter) is directly related to the amount of light entering the body through our eyes and skin. A lack of light (night) makes us naturally sleepy. Proper volume of light (day) makes us alert. A lack of light has also been associated with depression!

I am so sure that "light therapy" may help you that if you go to our site (www.ottbiolight.com) and check out "Winter Bright", I will personally GUARANTEE you satisfaction or your money back.

Please note: it is very important that you check with your doctor first because light therapy often effects the strength of meds. In many cases drugs can be reduced or stopped.

If your doctor is not familiar with light therapy send us his address and we will be happy to introduce him to our "light therapy register."

P.S. If you check my frequently asked questions section you will find greater details of medical/science to back up my comments.

Good Luck...kc

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