Window Placement Helps with SAD

Many illnesses and afflictions have often been misdiagnosed over the ages, that is until someone takes an interest. This includes blaming the illness on evil spirits or swamp gas, as in the case of malaria.

A not-so-modern condition that has been only diagnosed recently is Seasonal Affection Disorder. This is a mood disorder which is a depressive state triggered by the lack of sunlight and was only separated from the mental illnesses a few years ago. It has also been called "cabin fever."

This knowledge has prompted architects and home designers to rethink the placement of windows in new homes so that the greatest amount of sun can enter during the shortest light periods. This new way of designing also coincides with using the sunlight as a heating element for the home. Thermal masses like tile and brick will absorb and store it for later release.

The alteration of and sizing of windows may do a great deal to alleviate the suffering of this malady and maybe other illnesses that now are only treated with drugs