Due to our northern latitude, many Manitobans experience Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), while others experience a milder form of winter blues. SAD is a form of depression that occurs mostly during the fall and winter months, when days shorten and sunlight decreases. 

Light Therapy

While regularly getting outside during daylight hours can help to ease this slump, many students and staff need to study or attend classes and meetings indoors when the sun is shining. In these cases, light therapy, sitting near a specialized light each day, is an alternative. Did you know that NDC and EDC campuses both have light therapy stations available for use in the Libraries? Additionally, our regional campuses also have these stations available for use.  

If you’ve been feeling changes to your mood, lower energy levels, or any of the symptoms listed below, you may want to give light therapy a try. Staff and students are invited to work or study at the station anytime the library is open. 

You may also loan a smaller, portable lamp from the circulation desk. That lamp may be used anywhere in the library that is near a power outlet. You’ll find instructions on proper use as well as important notes posted above the lamp. 

To be effective, light from the lamp must enter your eyes indirectly. While your eyes must be open, don’t look directly at the light. Keep your session to 30 minutes, unless otherwise directed by a physician. 

Symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D.) 

• Feeling tired, depressed or sad 
• Increased appetite 
• Craving for carbohydrates and starchy foods 
• Weight gain 
• Sleeping more than usual 
• Social withdrawal 
• Lack of interest in usual activities 
• Inability to concentrate or focus 
• Loss of sexual desire 
• Body aches and pains 

If you feel that you may be experiencing any form of depression, including SAD, please speak to your primary health care provider and/or book and appointment with Student Counselling Services. 

Sources: The Mayo Clinic Website – www.mayoclinic.org and Northern Light Technologies Product Instructions