Seasonal depression dissorder (SAD) affects millions of people each year, generally around the winter months. It is sometimes referred to as cabin fever and can leave you feeling sluggish, tired, moody and less motivated. More severe cases involve the person withdrawing from others, not eating, and having trouble sleeping.

The main factor causing winter depression is a lack of sunlight. As a person starts to get less exposure to sunlight throughout the day, they body produces less serotonin. Studies show that as such individuals are exposed to more sunlight, they feel better and the body starts producing normal levels of serotonin again.

Studies conducted with individuals suffering from SAD found that using a tanning bed a few minutes each day resulted in significant changes in only three or four days. Many people in these studies felt their mood improve after a single tanning bed session.

Some people argue that tanning beds aren't good for your health but suffering from the effects of winter depression isn't good either. Use your best judgment and practice moderate exposure and your sure to rid yourself of the winter blues.