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Dawn simulators are the newest form of light therapy treatment for seasonal affective disorder (SAD). The light boxes use less light (1-300 lux) although the light gradually increases in intensity about 90 minutes prior to the patient's awakening. Dawn simulators may not work for all patients, but typically prove less costly than bright lights. Moreover, they do not require an early wake up time, which makes for much more convenient use. Studies have shown that dawn simulators may be as effective as traditional bright lights in the treatment of depression (Golden).
Attach the dawn simulator to a standard light in the patient's bedroom.
The timer should be set so that light wakes the patient up "naturally" at the desired wakeup time or 5-15 minutes earlier.
The length of the "sunrise" time can be adjusted from 15-120 minutes. Patients closer to the equator are accustomed to shorter "sunrise" times.
Dawn simulators are usually well tolerated, andside effects are few.
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