Emerging into the light: Lesson Learned

[Paul1]

I learned something very useful about depression.

I had suffered from depression on and off for about 15 years.

I discovered that a simple regimen, coupled with standard treatment under my specialist, has enabled me to live a positive existence.

Several years ago, a Melbourne researcher published a paper linking natural sunlight exposure to increased levels of serotonin.

Further clinical studies have lent weight to and put into practical application this discovery.

I find that, in my case, one hour per day of natural sunlight makes a significant positive difference. This means simply being out in the unfiltered sunlight  (ie without sunglasses or glasses), which I weave into the day with light exercise and usual activity (eg eating meal outside) is enough to make a great deal of difference.

My understanding is that it is the light entering the eyes, rather than light on the skin that is significant.

I believe that there is nothing peculiar about my condition or situation to suggest what works for me should not work for others.

Further details below 1.

Best wishes to fellow forum members,

Paul1

1. 1. Lambert, Reid, Kaye, Jennings, Esler: Effect of Sunlight and Season on Serotonin Turnover in the Brain, The Lancet, Vol 360, Issue 9348, pp 1840-1842, 7 Dec 2002.

[The_Real_David_Charles]

Dear Paul1,

Another factor is when travelling overseas.   As long as the eye gets enough natural light in the new country your time clock can re-set and thus lessen jet lag.

Guess it stands to reason that mulching in bed with depression till 2pm means that this cycle of light is missed and things don't improve much that day.  It's almost worth forcing a light walk, breakfast and THEN going back to bed to at least grab the natural glow of Serotonin rather than ply yourself with anti depressants, some of which are manufactured to fake a similar effect.

Adios, David.