Dr. Dotty Prescribes Light Therapy for the S.A.D.D. (Seasonal Affective Decorating Disorder)

Dear Dr. Dotty,

All of this rain, snow and cold weather has really got me feeling blue.  I’d like to do something brighten up my new modern digs and my life, but I’m not sure where to start. My creativity seems to be as frozen as my feet! Any advice?

Yours truly,

Betty Blue

Dear Betty Blue,

Winter decorating depression (or winter design blues) is a common affliction, especially for those who live in a northern climate. Its clinical name is Seasonal Affective Decorating Disorder TM (or SADD) and up to 5% of the population may suffer from it.

There are many effective treatments for winter decorating depression, some of which you can do to help yourself. Increasing your daily exposure to as much natural light as possible can be helpful to many. So, open up those blinds, shades and draperies and let there be light! Any time that you have the opportunity to gain access to more sunlight in the winter months, you should try to do so. 

In addition, light therapy has shown to be an effective treatment for seasonal affective decorating disorder. A lighting technique to try is to replace commonly used light bulbs in your home with brighter full spectrum (also known as broad spectrum) light bulbs. While more expensive than regular light bulbs, these bulbs provide light that is similar to natural sunlight.  Here are a few suggestions from the Interior Design buying guide an inspirationl prescription for you and your modern, yet chilly digs! 

Stay warm, and happy decorating!

Dr. Dotty, Design Therapist
Interiority Complex

Halo Vertical sconce in blackened steel with silk in Faceted by Bone Simple Design…