Transitioning from the warm summer months into dreary winter days can take its toll on your mood. So much so that it actually has a name: seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
Described by Mayo Clinic as “a type of depression that’s related to changes in seasons”, SAD (also known as seasonal depression) commonly occurs at the same time each year, coinciding with the shorter days’ lack of sunshine.
While some may be surprised that this phenomenon actually has a name, it may be even more of a shock that there are recommended treatments.
While (unfortunately) we can’t coax the sun to come out more often, SAD lamps have taken over as an effective treatment to the condition.
Here, we round up the best SAD lamps on the market.
The best SAD lamps to shop in Australia
01
Fitfirst Light Therapy Lamp
$39.99 at Amazon
Rated ‘Amazon’s Choice’ for light therapy lamps, this affordable SAD lamp comes with three colour brightness levels and a timer.
The USB device can be easily placed on top of your desk while working.
Key features:
- 3 adjustable colour settings
- Auto timer
02
Touch Control Smart LED SAD Lamp
$54 at Dick Smith
Similar to our first selection, this SAD Lamp is a rectangular desk topper, ideal for compact working.
With one warm yellow colour, the LED light can be adjusted to five brightness settings.
Key features:
- 5 brightness settings
- Auto timer
03
Solalamp S.A.D. Lamp Pro
$129 (originally $189.99) at Solalamp
With five colour/brightness options, the Solalamp is uber-tailorable.
Kitted with white noise soundtracks as an added bonus, the foldable lamp can also be customised with a timed display.
Key features:
- 5 colour/brightness settings
- 10+ white noise soundtracks
- Auto timer
04
Philips Wake-up Light
$126.83 at Amazon
The Philips Wake-up Light is designed not just as a tool for combating SAD but as an innovative device that enhances waking up, making it a gentler and more natural process.
It utilises a combination of light and sound to simulate sunrise, gradually increasing in intensity to gently wake you up in a more natural way than the abruptness of a traditional alarm clock.
Key features:
- 4 brightness settings and 10 light intensities
- 30 minute sunrise simulation
05
BioLight™ Full Spectrum + Infrared Light Panel
$579.95 at Block Blue Light
If you’re looking to get heavy-duty, the BioLight™ Full Spectrum + Infrared Light Panel may be the SAD lamp for you.
Granted, it’s on the pricier side, the BioLight emits full spectrum and near infrared light to simulate natural sunlight. The lamp certainly has the research to back it at least!
Key features:
- Utilises full spectrum visible light and near-infrared light
- Timer
- Brightness control
What are SAD lamps and how do they work?
Designed to target seasonal affective disorder (SAD), SAD lamps are designed to mimic natural sunlight, which can be scarce during autumn and winter months.
As it is linked to changes in seasons, these lamps work by emitting light that is much brighter than that of standard indoor lighting, typically delivering 10,000 lux, which is a measure of light intensity perceived by the human eye.
Please note: The information provided here is not intended as medical advice. It is advisable to consult with your doctor or healthcare professional before making any changes to your health or wellness routine.
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