Do SAD or light therapy lamps actually relieve SAD?

While some people experience benefits from using a SAD or light therapy lamp, it’s important to note that professionals aren’t sure how well it actually works, and the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) say it’s not clear whether it’s effective.

“Evidence around light therapy is still not 100% conclusive, but it does look as though it can deliver positive short-term effects,” Kamara explains. “This means it could be a helpful way to banish the winter blues until the days start getting longer.”

In this way, while there’s no definite answer as to whether SAD or light therapy lamps can offer everyone the same benefits, that doesn’t mean it isn’t worth it – it’s just up to you to decide whether you think light therapy could be effective for you.

Light therapy: how do SAD lamps work to relieve symptoms of seasonal affective disorder?