As part of the Le Mars Public Library’s “Beat the Blues Challenge”, the library has made light therapy lamps available for use in order to combat seasonal affective disorder. Three lamps are available to be checked out for three weeks, and a lamp has been installed in the library’s reading room for visitors to use while reading.
In light therapy, patients generally sit in front of a light box every morning for 30 minutes or more, depending on the doctor’s recommendation. The box shines light much brighter than ordinary indoor lighting. Studies from the National Institute of Health have shown that light therapy can relieve seasonal affective disorder symptoms in as much as 70% of patients after a few weeks of treatment.
In a press release, library director Shirley Taylor says that having the lamps accessible will “make it possible for people to try light therapy for a few weeks and determine if it helps them.”
If you’re feeling blue this winter, and if the feelings last for several weeks, talk to a healthcare provider. If you or someone you know is in immediate distress, call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Hotline by dialing 988.
