Most of us would agree that our moods are better on the warm and sunny days than the cloudy and gloomy ones but for me, the effect seems far more pronounced. For the past several months, I felt somewhat depressed on a consistent basis even though I've seen some improvements in my overall life in the past year. Only a couple of days ago when the temperature hit 80 degrees with plenty of sunshine, the depression quickly subsided without any effort on my part.

If it's been rainy and gloomy for the past week, I could literally win the lottery the next day and still feel depressed. But when it's hot and sunny, I feel a lot more upbeat than most people around me - I spontaneously talk to strangers around me without effort, for example. It seems my mental state is far more sensitive to the presence of sunlight (or lack thereof) than the average person.

Keep in mind that I live in Southern California where sunshine and a warm climate are no commodities.. and yet, I still struggle along in the winter months. If I am forced to relocate to a more harsh climate, it'll be an uphill battle. (Moving to the tropics for the winter months also isn't compatible with my current career.)

I don't prefer to resort to medications to remedy this situation since they mess with body chemistry and testosterone levels. What other ways to cope are available? I've heard about these light boxes if anyone has any recommendations..

You don't need a special box, they make fluorescent bulbs that fit into regular lamps which will do the same thing. Just make sure that the bulb is full spectrum and has a kelvin rating of nothing less than 5000. Stay away from from the 'soft white' bulbs because they will give off a amber light which will do nothing for you. Stick with the 'daylight' bulbs which give off a blue glow.

also, open the shades for sunlight and use mirrors to reflect light.
some people say adding some plants can make it just feel warmer.
i swear that candles add a soft glow and pleasing aroma that reflect positive energy.

No medications but maybe go more naturally with fish oil or vitamin D(careful though as its fat-soluble). Even try exercising to boost endorphins/mood, this is the fitness thread as well so we have tons of info on that Be glad u dont live here, it's 25 degrees out and very windy, haha.