Improving Sleep in Veterans With the Polytrauma Clinical Triad

Launched by VA OFFICE OF RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT · Jun 21, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is focused on helping veterans who are dealing with a combination of traumatic brain injury, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and chronic pain, which is known as the "polytrauma clinical triad" (PCT). Many veterans with PCT experience significant sleep problems, which can make their other symptoms worse and hinder their recovery. The researchers want to see if using bright light therapy in the morning can improve sleep for these veterans, ultimately helping them feel better and live more independently.

To participate in this study, veterans need to be between the ages of 65 and 74, speak English, and have access to a phone and the internet. They should also currently be experiencing sleep disturbances and have a documented history of traumatic brain injury. However, those with certain conditions, such as dementia, recent cancer diagnoses, or substance abuse issues, will not be eligible to join. If selected, participants can expect to try this simple, home-based therapy and share their experiences to help researchers understand its impact on their sleep and overall health.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Veteran
• • English speaking with phone and internet access
• • Current self-reported sleep disturbances
• • Clinical stable for current pharmacologic or behavioral health treatments for depression, anxiety, sleep and pain
• • Documented history of TBI
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Decisional impairment and/or dementia
• • Current usage of a lightbox or negative ion generator
• • Shift work
• • History of macular degeneration and/or bipolar disorder
• • Evidence for suicidal ideation
• • Cancer diagnosis within the past 6 months
• • Surgery within the past 6 months
• • Substance abuse within the past 6-12 months
• • Significant impairing post-stroke residual hemiparesis