Using a Bodyclock (dawn simulator) can significantly reduce the severity of SAD symptoms, and many SAD sufferers use a Bodyclock in addition to a lightbox to get optimum treatment. Bodyclocks work by using your body's natural response to sunrise and sunset to help synchronise your sleep/wake pattern. Each morning the light comes on very slowly (imitating sunrise) so your body responds to the increased light levels around you, subconsciously, and you wake up feeling refreshed. Special features of the Lumie Bodyclock Advanced

• Opal glass globe
• Security option so light comes on at random intervals from 4-11pm
• Nightlight option – light fades to 10
• Snooze feature
• Intelligent LCD digital display fades to very low level when you want to sleep
• ‘Sleepsound’ white noise option masks sounds - useful for shiftworkers
• Variable sunrise and sunset duration between 15 and 90 minutes
• Power failure backup

What causes SAD?

SAD is caused by the lack of bright light in winter. It is not a psychosomatic or imaginary problem. Researchers have proved that when bright light enters our eyes it causes chemical reactions to occur which control our daily rhythms and moods.

Melatonin is produced as it gets dark, making us feel sleepy. At dawn, as the light increases, melatonin production falls and we start to wake up. We find it difficult to wake up on dark mornings because our melatonin levels are still high. New research has shown that exposure to bright light also increases the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that carries signals between the nerves in the brain. Low levels of serotonin are known to be a cause of depression and, in fact, this links well with what people say: tasks which are easy when you are well become frustratingly difficult when you are depressed.

Why light therapy is effective

SAD is caused by lack of light, and the best way to cure or prevent it is to increase your exposure to light. The most effective 'treatment' is to get away during the winter to somewhere sunny. Given that most of us can't do this, the next best option is to use light therapy; after all if the problem is caused by lack of light from nature then it makes sense to get light by other means. By using light therapy the underlying problem is removed – light therapy can work for some people immediately, for others it may take up to ten days or so. Light therapy is the treatment of choice in NHS SAD Specialist Clinics.

Should I talk to my doctor?

We encourage SAD sufferers to seek the support of their doctor. We can supply details of NHS SAD Specialist clinics as well as comprehensive information packs for medical practitioners.