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 for 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
$41.99 at Amazon
Amazon’s number one best seller in 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
Trayvespace Light Therapy Lamp
$41.99 at Amazon
With three colour temperatures, nine brightness levels and three timer options, this lamp is uber-tailorable.
Kitted with a built-in smart-memory function as an added bonus, the adjustable gooseneck also allows you to point the light in any direction.
Key features:
- Easy to install, lightweight
- 3 colour temperatures (cool light/daylight/warm light)
- 9 adjustable brightness levels (10% to 100%)
03
Touch Control Smart LED SAD Lamp
$53 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
04
Philips Wake-up Light
$102.68 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™ Downlight – Full Spectrum Light
$74.95 at Amazon
If you’re looking to get heavy-duty, the BioLight™ Downlight – Full Spectrum Light may be the SAD lamp for you.
It’s the first biological-friendly full spectrum light bulb technology of its kind and uses advanced technology to provide optimal lighting all day, and all night.
Key features:
- 3 modes to provide optimal lighting
- Colour temperature: 4000k / 2100k / 1800k
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.