I’ve made a commitment this month to really spend some time talking about Mental Health with everyone. I wanted to start off by talking about something that many of have experienced, depression.
Why is that?
As we move through the last months of winter, it can feel like the candle of our energy has almost burned to its base. Willpower is low and our mental health has taken a shock.
So I would ask that you take a moment, no matter where you are, to pause and recognize yourself through self-care. Springtime sunshine is just around the bend. ☀️
Now, when you’re ready to learn more about mental health, please read on. If you need more time to process, please take it!
So we hear about depression often, but what is the medical definition?
*Information pulled from American Psychiatric Association*
“Depression (major depressive disorder) - is a common and serious medical illness that negatively affects how you feel, the way you think and how you act.” Depression commonly affects an estimated 6.7% of adults within any given year. (Article 1) Here are some common symptoms:
Lasting sadness
Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed
Emotional and physical struggles
Inability to function at work and at home
Important to note:
Feeling sadness and loss does not always correlate to being depressed. If you are currently grieving, this is a natural process and has a period of time where you will be processing and may be more withdrawn than normal. If this is the case, lean on your loved ones and know that you can always reach out.
What are some other symptoms?
*Information pulled from American Psychiatric Association*
** Please note - “Symptoms must last at least two weeks and must represent a change in your previous level of functioning for a diagnosis of depression.” Please make sure you consult with your doctor as well if you feel like this may apply to you. **
Changes in appetite (unrelated to diet)
Under/over sleeping
Loss of energy or increased fatigue
Feeling worthless or guilty
Difficulty thinking & concentrating
Thoughts of death or suicide
Why is this important to acknowledge?
Many who experience depression don’t realize that they are in it. I want to bring awareness to this so you can know for your loved ones who you think may be in need of that loving hand and support.
If you think someone in your life may be experiencing depression, please also seek out the assistance of your doctor.
How does light therapy help with depression?
Here are three core things that happen during a Low-Level Light Therapy session that help with reducing the effects of depression:
When your body absorbs red/near-infrared light energy, it simulates a photochemical reaction within your mitochondria that increases ATP production and cell signaling. What does this mean in layman's terms? Basically it gives your body the energy it needs to accelerate the natural healing process of your body as it balances the chemical processes within your body.
Light therapy helps your body repair itself faster as it increases your circulation. This is really helpful as it increases blood flow to the frontal cortex of your brain. Several studies show that part of depression can be linked to abnormal blood flow to areas within the brain. It also helps with balancing serotonin which is key to regulating mood.
Now, what does science say…
During one two week study, 6 of 10 patients experienced highly significant remissions in their depression, especially after 2 weeks. (Article 4)
Analysis of randomized trials show that light therapy with over 5,000 lux for periods of over 30 minutes is greater/more effective than standard antidepressant pharmacotherapy in relation to major depressive disorder and bipolar depression. (Article 3)
“The meta-analysis demonstrated the light therapy was significantly more effective than comparative treatments. Subgroup analyses revealed that none of the factors explained the significantly heterogeneity. Light therapy has a statistically significant mild to moderate treatment effect in reducing depressive symptoms, can be used as a clinical therapy in treating non-seasonal depression.” (Article 2)
Just remember, we are almost to warmer months! In the meantime enjoy the red, blue, and infrared wavelengths of Light Therapy to revive your mind and energy.
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Here are the articles I've referenced above:
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