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Dawn Simulators Versus Light Boxes

Light therapy helps some individuals suffering from seasonal affective disorder (SAD). SAD is a form of depression that strikes each fall and lasts through the winter months. Limited exposure to sunlight appears to alter the brain's chemistry, according to the Mayo Clinic. Dawn simulators mimic the sunrise while light boxes trick the brain into reacting as it would on a sunny day. Research the advantages of both treatments before investing your time and money.

  1. Light Box Summary

    • Light boxes display a bright light that imitates sunlight. Average lightbulbs lack the intensity required for light therapy. Light boxes designed specifically for the treatment of SAD should offer 10,000 lux at a distance of 1 to 2 feet. In addition, the boxes should filter any damaging ultraviolet rays. SAD patients must sit in front of the light box for approximately 30 minutes each morning.

    Dawn Simulator Summary

    • Consider the options when buying a dawn simulator. Some simulators simply provide a gradual light as if the sun is rising. Other dawn simulators offer adjustable light intensities, backup alarm clocks, reading lights and radios. Set the simulator to the time you wake up and the simulator will gradually brighten the bedroom over a period of 30 to 60 minutes until brightness reaches the highest intensity at the set time.

    Costs Compared

    • Buying a quality light box means investing $100 or more. Both light boxes and dawn simulators come over-the-counter and insurance companies often decline picking up the cost. Dawn simulators run a little less than light boxes, but not by much. Cheaper varieties cost $30, while higher-end simulators with extra options like backup alarms may cost $150 or more. Newer products offer a combination light box and dawn simulator for approximately $170. Cost estimates are taken from May 2010.

    Research

    • Looking at the research helps little in deciding between a dawn simulator and light box. Studies into the effectiveness of light therapy and dawn simulation resulted in a 57 percent success rate for light boxes and a 50 percent success rate for dawn simulators among SAD sufferers, according to research done at Columbia University.

    How to Choose

    • Think about your lifestyle when making a decision between a light box and dawn simulator. Light boxes require a daily time investment of 30 minutes or more while dawn simulators work while you sleep. For severe SAD, the chances of a successful treatment improve a little when using a light box. Ask your mental health professional or doctor for any recommendations. Most importantly, only buy light therapy products from companies with a solid reputation in SAD treatment.

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