Therapy Light Recommendations

scatterbrained04 · Aug 05, 2020 at 03:46 AM

I'm going to be purchasing 2 10,000 lux light boxes for my desks at work. Do you guys have any that you would recommend? The big thing is I need to make sure they are not noisy.

Aug 05, 2020 at 05:16 AM

Here's some good info on light boxes: Seasonal affective disorder treatment: Choosing a light box - Mayo Clinic

I don't have a light box, but I just want to let you know that some light boxes are intended for dermatology, etc. rather than depression. The "lux" doesn't really matter if you get a dermatological light box by mistake because dermatological light boxes don't work on depression. IIRC, the type of light is what really matters -- e.g., how much UV, etc..

I had thought about a light box before, which is the only reason I know these things. But yeah...

Innerzone · Aug 05, 2020 at 10:15 AM

I have a Verilux HappyLight Touch. Model VT23. I've had it for 2 years, and like it. The first time I turned it on I couldn't BELIEVE how bright it was! But you don't look AT it, so it's alright, just something I remember being surprised about.

I recall it being about $100. There are ones at half that price, but they're not the same. It has touch control that couldn't be simpler. Very straightforward. 10,000 lux, no UV, no flicker, no noise. It's 7 1/4" x 11 1/8" flat (about 1/2" depth) panel and you pop a little piece into the bottom back for it to stand (that otherwise stores flat in the back of the unit. It takes up about 3 1/4" of depth with the stand on.

I just took pictures of the box, but don't know if I can show you, as the picture icon asks for the URL of the pic, which of course it doesn't have. (If anyone knows how to put them up here, lmk.)

*Beth* · Aug 05, 2020 at 11:46 AM

Just sharing my experience...

I purchased a light box last autumn. I used it day after day and it was a complete waste. The only effect it had on me was to give me headaches.

I've spoken with a decent number of people about light boxes and the best I've ever heard was, "Yeah, it helps somewhat."

RockyRoad007 · Aug 05, 2020 at 01:08 PM

I use one. Use it everyday.
It is the pureguardian blue or white light. Funny enough, I tend to use the blue light more, as it seems to be a little easier on my eyes. Purchased it on Amazon.
I also purchased the ugreen long arm adjustable clamp so I can put it to the height, distance and direction I want. I can also swing it out of the way when not in use. The light box clamps on upside down. It is actually meant for a phone or tablet. You do need the right desk to be able to attach the clamp to.

Another good one is one of the Carex ones that are height and angle adjustable without having an extra clamping device attached to your desk. This brand is often used in studies.

They work best being slightly above eye level to direct the light at a downward angle. Most sit on the desk pointing the light upwards, which isn't ideal.
As others have pointed out, have it positioned to one side as you don't look directly at the light.

*Beth* · Aug 05, 2020 at 02:09 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RockyRoad007

I use one. Use it everyday.
It is the pureguardian blue or white light. Funny enough, I tend to use the blue light more, as it seems to be a little easier on my eyes. Purchased it on Amazon.
I also purchased the ugreen long arm adjustable clamp so I can put it to the height, distance and direction I want. I can also swing it out of the way when not in use. The light box clamps on upside down. It is actually meant for a phone or tablet. You do need the right desk to be able to attach the clamp to.

Another good one is one of the Carex ones that are height and angle adjustable without having an extra clamping device attached to your desk. This brand is often used in studies.

They work best being slightly above eye level to direct the light at a downward angle. Most sit on the desk pointing the light upwards, which isn't ideal.
As others have pointed out, have it positioned to one side as you don't look directly at the light.

When I used my light box I thought it would be much better if the light was coming from above me (downward angle).

bpcyclist · Aug 05, 2020 at 05:17 PM

Living in the SAD capital of the galaxy, I have tried maybe five different lights w zero benefit.

What has helped a ton is using orange and amber flood lights to light my walls w the color of sunshine. Super duper helpful for me. I know I am weird...

RockyRoad007 · Aug 05, 2020 at 09:47 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bpcyclist

Living in the SAD capital of the galaxy, I have tried maybe five different lights w zero benefit.

What has helped a ton is using orange and amber flood lights to light my walls w the color of sunshine. Super duper helpful for me. I know I am weird...

This is super interesting to me, as I have been thinking of getting a couple of smart light bulbs. Using the app, you can change the bulb into 16 million different colors (or so they claim).
You can select different shades of white such as cool, warm, cold etc, or any color you choose using their app that has a color wheel on it.

I was thinking I would enjoy sitting in violet light, but never thought of bright orange/yellow to simulate a bright sun in the sky.

I'm constantly on the lookout for the magic cure for my depression and mood swings.

I've managed to find myself in the sad capital of the galaxy also, my area averages six feet of rain a year. I go months without seeing the sun or moon.

BipolaRNurse · Aug 12, 2020 at 01:45 AM

I live in the Pacific NW too, and I wonder sometimes how many people here are NOT using light boxes. We're all Vitamin D deficient as well. LOL

scatterbrained04 · Aug 12, 2020 at 03:54 AM

Thanks for the suggestions. I'll take a look at them. I have noticed light and dark do affect me, that's why I want to try them out. I do well in summer but all the other seasons have a lot of overcast skies or rain here

Menu

My Support Forums - Mental Health Support Groups

Get emotional support and friendship from others like you!

Therapy Light Recommendations

My Support Forums

scatterbrained04 Magnate Member Since Feb 2015 Location: Ohio Posts: 2,868 9	Aug 05, 2020 at 03:46 AM #1 I'm going to be purchasing 2 10,000 lux light boxes for my desks at work. Do you guys have any that you would recommend? The big thing is I need to make sure they are not noisy.
	Reply With Quote

Beth catches the flowers Member Since Jul 2019 Location: Downtown Vibes, California Posts: 15,701 (SuperPoster!) 4 23.7k hugs given	Aug 05, 2020 at 11:46 AM #4 Just sharing my experience... I purchased a light box last autumn. I used it day after day and it was a complete waste. The only effect it had on me was to give me headaches. I've spoken with a decent number of people about light boxes and the best I've ever heard was, "Yeah, it helps somewhat." __________________
	Reply With Quote

bpcyclist Legendary Member Since Sep 2019 Location: Portland Posts: 12,681 (SuperPoster!) 4 40.2k hugs given	Aug 05, 2020 at 05:17 PM #7 Living in the SAD capital of the galaxy, I have tried maybe five different lights w zero benefit. What has helped a ton is using orange and amber flood lights to light my walls w the color of sunshine. Super duper helpful for me. I know I am weird... __________________ When I was a kid, my parents moved a lot, but I always found them--Rodney Dangerfield
	Reply With Quote

scatterbrained04 Magnate Member Since Feb 2015 Location: Ohio Posts: 2,868 9	Aug 12, 2020 at 03:54 AM #10 Thanks for the suggestions. I'll take a look at them. I have noticed light and dark do affect me, that's why I want to try them out. I do well in summer but all the other seasons have a lot of overcast skies or rain here
	Reply With Quote