As the days continue to grow shorter in the Northern Hemisphere, patients who suffer from seasonal affective disorder (SAD) will start to experience symptoms of depression. Finish company Valkee Ltd. has performed research which shows that the brain is sensitive to light, and claims that its bright light headset can help treat SAD. The CE Marked device looks like an mp3 player with earbuds, but instead of filling the patient’s head with the sounds of Lady Gaga or whatever they are playing nowadays, it pumps bright light to the brain through the ear canals.
In initial trials, 92% of patients reported that the Valkee headset reduced or completely eliminated symptoms of SAD.
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The Valkee bright light headset channels bright light direct to the human brain via the ear canal to prevent and cure depression, mood swings and circadian-rhythm disorders such as jetlag. In clinical trials, 9 of 10 patients suffering from severe seasonal affective disorder – also known as winter blues – experienced total relief from their symptoms in 4 weeks with a daily 8-12 minute dose. Valkee is based on scientific studies carried out since 2007 and is a CE-marked Class II(a) medical device.