Effect of Morning Light Exposure on Mood

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA · Nov 7, 2022

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying how exposure to morning light can improve mood and help with sleep problems, especially in military personnel. Researchers believe that getting the right amount of light at the right time can make a big difference for those who struggle with feelings of sadness or suicidal thoughts. The trial aims to see if this simple change can help service members feel better emotionally and sleep more soundly.

To participate, you need to be between 18 and 60 years old, have a mild level of depression or greater, and be actively serving in any branch of the Armed Forces. If you join the study, you can expect to be involved for about six weeks, during which you'll be exposed to morning light as part of your daily routine. It's important to know that certain conditions, like being pregnant or having a history of specific mental health disorders, may prevent you from participating. If you're interested, this could be a chance to help improve mental health support for service members.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Ages 18-60 years
• • At least an 8th grade reading level
• • Score ≥ 5 (i.e., mild depression or greater) on the Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9)
• • Service member of any Armed Forces branch, including active duty, Reserve, or National Guard
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Not actively serving in an Armed Force branch
• • Scored (i.e., \< 5) range on the PHQ-9 (non-depressed)
• • Pregnant or trying to become pregnant
• • Breastfeeding
• • History of psychotic disorder or manic episodes
• • Bipolar disorder
• • Diseases of the eye
• • Have had cataract surgery
• • Frequent and light-sensitive migraine headaches
• • Self-reported plan to regularly engage in nightshift work during the 6-week course of the study