Many people feel depressed now that the days are becoming shorter. For those who are suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder(SAD), depression symptoms are more severe during this time of the year. The American Lighting Association (ALA) suggests that homeowners can counter the negative effects of SAD.

According to a New York report, the Lighting Research Center has confirmed that people need both bright days and dark night. The possibility exists that consumers may have been able to see. “light boxes”Although light boxes are promoted as a solution, they are not something you can do on your own.

“It’s easy to use the light boxes improperly,”Terry McGowan, director for engineering and technology at the ALA, said this. “Light therapy — just like any other drug or treatment regimen — should be prescribed by a physician. Part of that ‘light prescription’ will involve how much light, when it’s to be provided, and for how long.”

McGowan’s personal and professional research on SAD and his concern for reducing the symptoms are both personal as well. “My wife is affected by SAD,”He reveals. “We live in northern Ohio, which has many cloudy days and weeks of gloomy weather during November and December. In the dining room and kitchen, the use of indirect lighting brightens the room and supplements the daylight through skylights and large windows.”

Some light bulbs are more effective than natural light, but there are still options. Bulbrite’s director of residential sales, Brian Creeley, recommends replacing standard incandescent bulbs by versions that replicate the effects of natural light. “full spectrum lighting, leaving you with lighting that has the same effect that you get from sunlight.”

These specialty bulbs can be found at ALA-member lighting shops. McGowan has these tips for brightening rooms in condos or homes that don’t receive enough natural light.

* Maximize any available morning daylight.

* Use light colors for room surfaces.

* Use high-reflectance white paint for the ceiling.

* Incorporate an indirect light source into your room.

* Use accent and spot lights to add focus on plants, decorations or feature areas, creating an effect similar to sunshine and shadows.

For professional consultation, you can visit a nearby ALA member lighting showroom to get a customized solution. For more details, visit www.AmericanLightingAssoc.com.