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Top 5 Things You Should Know About SAD Research

From Dr. Michael Terman and Jamie Rifkin, for About.com

Created: June 21, 2007

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by Steven Gans, MD

Each year Dr. Michael Terman, the Director of the Center for Light Treatment and Biological Rhythms at New York-Presbyterian Hospital, Columbia University Medical Center, is kind enough to keep us updated on the latest developments in his field. For your convenience, this information is divided by topic so you can quickly locate the information that you need.

1. Symptoms of SAD

This article discusses the signs and symptoms of SAD and offers a free self-assessment questionnaire.

2. Best Treatment for SAD

Experts agree that bright light therapy is still the best form of treatment for SAD. This article discusses the specifics of light therapy, such a light intensity and timing.

3. Alternatives to Light Therapy

While light therapy is considered the best treatment, other alternatives have been investigated and found to have positive results, such as dawn simulation, high-density negative air ionization and antidepressants.

4. Light Therapy for Disorders Other Than SAD

Light therapy isn't just for SAD anymore. It has shown promising results in the treatment of several disorders, including PMS, antepartum depression, chronic fatigue syndrome, insomnia and eating disorders.

5. Winter 2006-2007 SAD Update

The latest developments for the winter 2006-2007 SAD season.

About the Authors:

Dr. Michael Terman heads the Winter Depression Program at Columbia-Presbyterian Medical Center in New York City, where Mr. Jamie Rifkin serves as Recruitment Coordinator and Clinical Evaluator.

Explore Depression

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