The reduction in daylight hours during the winter in Minnesota is not just discouraging, but has been shown to significantly affect many residents' mental health.
Seasonal affective disorder is a type of depression that occurs at a certain time each year, usually in the fall and winter. Light therapy is a way to treat seasonal affective disorder and certain other conditions by exposure to artificial light. During light therapy, people sit or work near a device called a light therapy box. The box gives off bright light that mimics natural outdoor light.
The Brainerd Public Library, as part of a grant from the Essentia Health-St. Joseph's Foundation, purchased three light therapy boxes shown in clinical studies to alleviate many of the symptoms of this disorder. They are positioned in comfortable reading areas throughout the library and are available for patrons to use in the library when they wish.
Different light exposure strategies work for different people. If readers have questions about the use of the lights, contact a medical professional.
For more information call 218-829-5574 or visit the library's Facebook page at www.facebook.com/brainerdpubliclibrary .
