Agreed!

I've taken 2000 iu everyday for several months and I've noticed that I feel more optimistic and just seem to have a more positive outlook about everything in general. I've been more productive, too.

I still need to combine the vitamin D w/my light therapy. If I miss either one, I feel the difference.

Hi karl and radionut

I have started taking Vitamin D about 2 months ago, but the recommended dose says 400 iu per day.

I asked the Health Store if I could take more,(because of SAD) they told me to ask a Pharmacist. I did this, and they told me not to go over the recommended dose.

I mentioned I had heard of others (DS) who had been taking larger daily quantities and had felt better.They said they could not comment!!

I have just come through 4 weeks of sleeping most of the day, and finding it very hard to do anything without a struggle.

Radio ~ as you say light therapy helps, I agree, but because of the way I have been this past month, I havent had the energy to do my light box ~ catch 22 situation ... lol !!!

Angel xx

I agree Karl and I am glad it is helping you. I have taken vitamin D for a few years now and it does make a difference. Angel, I know that most pharmacists will tell you not to exceed the recommended dose of most any vitamin or supplement. However, those dosages are for the average person. My research has led me to some natural herbalists who will recommen much higher doses for therapeutic purposes. An example is fish oil (omega 3). I take 4-6 times the recommended dose for depression. I also take 4-6 times the recommended dose of vitamin D. While I think it is extremely important to be careful with the supplements we take, we have to remember the recommendations are not for people who are already deficient in them due to illness but rather diet. People who suffer with SAD are depleted of vitamin D and therefore usually need higher doses.

Vitamin B complex is also very good for maintaining stability with SAD or depression.

Angel, I hope you feel better soon sweetie, I have kept you in my prayers. Hugs

thank you for the comments ,very helpfull

Hi Shelly

Words of wisdom from you as always ~ thank you so much. You have really helped me this year and guided me in the right direction on self medication.

I have taken all you have said on board.

Thanks again for your endless help ~ you are a shining star.

Keep well ~ Take care

Angel xxxxxxxx

My husband and I both have SAD (and I'm thinking my 8 yo son might too). At different times, two different drs. have told each of us to up our Vit. D. Him to 3000 and me to 2000/day. Both drs even did blood work in the fall and we were both deficient in vit. d. Though this isn't uncommon in the Midwest. I think I feel better when I remember to take them (one at noon, other at PM). I already take a lot of other meds, so sometimes I forget.

Also, light boxes do help. I've had mine for a few years, but I'm usually to tired, depressed, and/or lazy to get it out and hook it up!

Oh well. We do what we can! Good luck!

I AM SO GLAD THAT I FOUND YOUR COMMENT! THE LAST TIME I WENT TO THE DOCTOR I WAS TOLD THAT I HAD A VITAMIN D DEFICIENCY AND STARTED TAKING THE VITAMIN D PILLS. WHEN THE SUN IS OUT I TAKE 100IU'S AND WHEN IT'S NOT I TAKE 2000IUS. HAVE YOU REALLY FOUND IT TO HELP YOUR MOODS? BECAUSE I HAVE TERRIBLE DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY. I JUST WENT IN AND TOOK 4000 UNITS. IM SO GLAD I FOUND YOUR POSTING. THANK YOU

Gramybear, Straight from my dr.'s mouth=take 2000 a day. Hubby takes 3000. There aren't any side affects, I believe. I'm still very depressed, take tons of pharm meds and hate it. I'd love to find a dr. who could do more of the supplement recommendations and less of the script writing!!! This week, it's been cloudy all week, but we're supposed to have sun tomorrow. (Fingers crossed) Good luck! Feel free to write me anytime! :)