LED light treatment protects against seasonal depression

Now, in addition to cocktails, coffee, and local food, the Lightbar on Morrison Avenue southeast of Portland also provides light and color treatments to help Portland residents resist winter depression. Customers can experience different light treatments for free when they are using a laptop or chatting with friends. A wall with colored LED lights will also illuminate the entire space.

The owner of the store, Alex Carlsson, said: “I have noticed that there is a lack of light and color here every winter.” Carlson started operating “Light Bar” from June this year, but he actually had this one a few years ago. idea. This "Light Bar" is the first in Portland. "I began to ponder this idea. Many people said to me: 'In Portland, we need such things.'" Carlson said.

Al Louis, a professor of psychology at Oregon Medical University, believes that half of the residents in the city of Portland suffer from seasonal mood disorders (SAD). “Winter depression is like a time difference of 5 months per year,” said Louis. He believes that SAD is associated with shortened sunshine hours and lack of vitamin D. Symptoms of SAD include lethargy, drowsiness, and increased food intake.

Carlson said he himself suffers from winter depression and is a mild SAD. "A lot of people suffer from winter depression but they don't realize it themselves," Carlson said.

The light treatment provided by “Light Bar” can help combat seasonal depression by putting people in proximity to sunlight. Carlson said that "Light Bar" and light therapy also provide additional interactive services. At present, "Light Bar" has attracted many customers.

"It's raining outside now, and it's almost full here," said Carlson on Tuesday afternoon. "It feels bright and pleasant - I personally feel very helpful."