Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) has long been associated with daylight exposure, and it’s well-established that increased daylight can benefit those with SAD. However, the impact of external light on nonseasonal depressive disorders is less clear. To explore this, researchers conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the effectiveness of bright light therapy as a supplementary treatment for nonseasonal depression. Bright light therapy, in this context, involves using a fluorescent light box that emits white light, typically at 10,000 lux, for a minimum of 30 minutes.

The analysis focused on randomized clinical trials that compared bright light therapy alone, or combined with antidepressants, against placebo, antidepressant monotherapy, or dim red light in patients with any type of nonseasonal depressive disorder. Key outcomes measured included symptom remission, treatment response rates, and scores on depression scales.

The authors concluded that bright light therapy is an effective adjunctive treatment for nonseasonal depressive disorders. Their findings also suggest that adding bright light therapy may speed up the response to initial antidepressant treatment.

Please discuss this option with your pharmacist at Centrum Pharmacy and see if a light therapy is indicated for your condition. 

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