This year, Prince William Public Libraries are shining some light on Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), offering “SAD Lamps” for public use. Shorter days mean less sunlight and a higher percentage of waking hours spent in darkness. And because many people spend most of these shortened daylight hours indoors, it also means a lack of direct sunlight and Vitamin D. This can lead to the negative thoughts and feelings associated with SAD, now identified as a definable mental health issue affecting millions.
The condition can manifest itself in fatigue, depression, and social withdrawal. While the exact causes of SAD are not fully understood, the condition is both widely recognized and treatable. In fact, many people who suffer from SAD are fully capable of diagnosing themselves. If you recognize a recurrence of symptoms, you can find many treatments and strategies on your own which are accessible and affordable.
A SAD lamp is a specialized light device designed that mimics sunlight, which can trigger the body to release serotonin. While the efficacy of this treatment cannot be guaranteed, it is also virtually risk-free. Prince William Public Libraries has nearly 20 SAD lamps available to be hecked out, renewed, or put on hold.
Each lamp comes with instructions for use. If you or somebody close to you suffers from SAD, please check out this new product by searching for “SAD Lamp” in the online catalog or from your library.