Norman E. Rosenthal is an American psychiatrist and scientist, originally from South Africa, who is recognized for his groundbreaking work in identifying and describing Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and establishing light therapy as a treatment. After completing his medical education in South Africa, he moved to the United States for his residency and established a private practice. He also conducted extensive research at the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) for over two decades, focusing on mood, sleep, and biological rhythms. It was during this time that he first defined SAD and developed its primary treatment.

Beyond his work on SAD, Rosenthal has explored various other areas, including the practice and potential benefits of Transcendental Meditation (TM), its application for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and even the antidepressant effects of botulinum toxin. He has authored numerous books covering these topics, as well as a memoir and a book on the therapeutic aspects of poetry. His extensive research output includes over 300 scholarly papers, and he continues to be a prominent figure in the field, often consulted by the media.

Dr. Norman E. Rosenthal is widely acknowledged as a pioneer in the field of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). His interest in the impact of seasons on mood was sparked by his own experience emigrating from South Africa to the northeastern United States, where he observed personal shifts in energy and productivity corresponding with the length of daylight. While working at the New York State Psychiatric Institute, he noticed these seasonal patterns in himself and others. This led to his seminal research at NIMH, where in 1984, he coined the term SAD and began investigating light therapy as a potential treatment. His team's successful treatment of a patient with depression using bright lights, followed by a formal study, officially described SAD and validated phototherapy as an effective intervention. Despite some ongoing debate among researchers, SAD and light therapy are now recognized by major medical institutions and included in psychiatric textbooks.

Rosenthal's research interests extend to the practice and therapeutic applications of Transcendental Meditation (TM). He initially learned the technique in South Africa but did not consistently practice it until later in his career. A patient's significant improvement after using TM prompted Rosenthal to re-engage with the practice and subsequently recommend it to his own patients. This led to his authorship of books such as 'Transcendence: Healing and Transformation Through Transcendental Meditation' and 'Super Mind: How to Boost Performance and Live a Richer and Happier Life Through Transcendental Meditation.' He also investigated TM's potential benefits for individuals suffering from posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), conducting preliminary research and collaborating on studies comparing TM with other therapeutic approaches for veterans with PTSD.

Beyond his primary focus on SAD and TM, Norman Rosenthal has made diverse contributions to the understanding of mental health and well-being. He co-authored a book on managing jet lag by stabilizing circadian rhythms and explored the antidepressant effects of botulinum toxin (Botox) when injected into facial muscles. His literary output is extensive, encompassing a memoir titled 'The Gift of Adversity,' which reflects on the unexpected benefits of life's challenges, and 'Poetry RX,' a work examining the therapeutic power of poetry. With over 300 scholarly publications to his name, Rosenthal has also been recognized with numerous awards and honors for his research and contributions to psychiatry. He continues to see patients, coach professionals, and is frequently cited in media as an authority on SAD.