
Full spectrum bright fluorescent light that simulates the wavelengths of natural daylight is the most effective light therapy for certain types of depression. It is part of the first line treatment for a type of depression that occurs with change in seasons, known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD), but also useful for a few other conditions that affect mood.
Is blue light good for depression?
Research indicates that blue light is superior to other lights in the spectrum for treating depression. Studies show that blue light can be used at a specific wavelength and frequency at less intensity than full spectrum bright light to achieve the same kind of effects.
The success with bright light in mood improvement spurred research on the efficacy of other lights in the spectrum, in improving symptoms of depression. The effects of green light have also been studied, but green light has not shown evidence of having any antidepressant effects.
What is light therapy for depression?
Light therapy, also known as phototherapy, involves the use of artificial bright light or blue light to improve mood and reduce depression symptoms. The blue light used in light therapy for depression is filtered to block ultraviolet (UV) rays and not to be confused with the UV blue light therapy used to treat certain skin conditions such as psoriasis.
Light therapy for depression involves the use of artificial lamps to create bright daylight conditions for 30 to 60 minutes immediately upon waking. The therapy typically has to be followed throughout the period of risk for depression, usually from September to April.
What is light therapy used for?
Light therapy is primarily used to treat seasonal affective disorder (SAD), also known as “winter blues.” SAD is a form of depression that has worsening symptoms during the fall and winter months. SAD does occur for some people during spring/summer but is more common in fall/winter.
Seasonal affective disorder tends to occur more often in women and accounts for approximately 10% of all major depressive disorders. SAD usually starts in late teens and disappears with menopause. SAD is more common in the far northern and southern latitudes where day lengths in summer and winter vary to a great degree.
SAD is thought to be caused by chemical imbalances in the brain because of shorter daylight hours and reduced sunlight in the winter months. The body’s normal circadian rhythm, the 24-hour internal clock that regulates the sleep-wake cycle, is disrupted, leading to depressed mood and lethargy.
Other conditions for which light therapy can be useful include:
- Depression that is not seasonal
- Jetlag
- Sleep disorders
- Adjusting to night shift work
- Dementia

SLIDESHOW
Learn to Spot Depression: Symptoms, Warning Signs, Medication See SlideshowHow does light therapy work?
Exposure to an hour of bright light in the morning helps maintain the body’s normal circadian rhythm. When eyes sense bright light in the morning they send signals to the brain to reduce the levels of melatonin. Melatonin is a chemical messenger (neurotransmitter) in the brain that regulates the body’s circadian rhythm and energy metabolism.
Melatonin level normally rises in the evening, which helps us sleep better, and goes down in the morning, which keeps us alert and energetic during the day. In people with SAD, melatonin levels continue to remain high in the morning, which leads to depression, anxiety and lack of energy during the day and sleep problems in the night.
By suppressing melatonin levels in the morning, light therapy increases energy levels and alertness during the day, and improves night sleep, both of which contribute to a person’s state of wellbeing and happiness. Bright light is believed to also boost the level of serotonin, another hormone that regulates mood and emotions.
How do you use light therapy?
The light intensity is measured in lux (one lumen per square meter) and you will need to use a 10,000 lux bright light, although blue light boxes may come with lower lux. It is not sufficient to expose only your skin to the light, your eyes must be open and indirectly exposed to the light, but you must not look directly at the light.
You may be required to spend about 30 to 60 minutes every day in front of the light, typically within 24 inches from the light, throughout the period that you are at risk for developing depression. You can set the light on a table so that you can work, eat, read or be occupied otherwise during the therapy.
It is best to first discuss with your doctor if light therapy will be useful for you and the type of device that will best suit your needs. Several types of light therapy devices are available over the counter, which can be used at home.
Latest Depression News
Daily Health News
What are the benefits of light therapy?
Light therapy is a safe and effective treatment with few side effects. Benefits of light therapy include:
- Noninvasive and easy to do
- Milder and fewer side effects than medications
- Can reduce or eliminate the need for antidepressants
What are the risks of light therapy?
Light therapy is generally a safe treatment for most people and the few side effects that do arise are mild and do not last long. Light therapy, however, is not regulated or approved by FDA for seasonal affective disorder.
People who have certain conditions or take medications that make the eyes or skin sensitive, and people with bipolar disorder need to exercise caution with light therapy. Side effects of light therapy include:
- Headache
- Eye strain
- Nausea
- Irritability or agitation
- Mania or hyperactivity in people with bipolar disorder

QUESTION
Depression is a(n) __________ . See AnswerHealth Solutions From Our Sponsors
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/light-therapy/about/pac-20384604
https://www.health.harvard.edu/newsletter_article/Light_therapy_for_winter_depression
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1309618/
Top What Color Light Is Best for Depression? Related Articles
How Can I Boost My Mood and Mental Health Naturally?
Mental health affects how you think, feel, and interact with the outside world. Boost your mood and mental health naturally by getting enough sleep, moving, eating well, stepping outside, and doing something you enjoy.Can Blue Light Cause Depression?
Yes, in humans, there is evidence that supports that blue light disrupts the normal circadian rhythms (biological clock), resulting in mood disorders such as depression.Celexa vs. Lexapro
Celexa (citalopram) and Lexapro (escitalopram) are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) type antidepressants used to treat depression and anxiety disorders. These drugs are also sometimes used for obsessive-compulsive disorders and panic disorders. Side effects of Celexa and Lexapro that are similar include nausea, dry mouth, increased sweating, headache, tremor (shaking), drowsiness, difficulty sleeping, and sexual difficulties.Citalopram
Citalopram is an antidepressant drug used to treat: depression, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, premenstrual dysphoric syndrome (PMDD), anxiety disorder, and posttraumatic stress disorder. Side effects, drug interactions, warnings and precautions, and patient safety information should be reviewed prior to taking any medication.How Does Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Treat Depression?
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) uses cognitive strategies to help people change patterns in the way they think and behavioral strategies to help people change behaviors that aren't helpful. CBT can help people with mild-to-moderate major depressive disorder.Cymbalta (duloxetine) vs. Effexor XR (venlafaxine)
Cymbalta, brand name duloxetine, and Effexor XR brand name venlafaxine (Effexor has been discontinued) are antidepressants belonging to a drug class called selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). Cymbalta and Effexor XR are used for the treatment of chronic depression, anxiety disorders (for example, general or social), and pain. Cymbalta also treats fibromyalgia, and musculoskeletal or diabetic neuropathy (nerve pain). Similar side effects of Cymbalta and Effexor include headaches, insomnia, anxiety, nausea, and dry mouth.Learn to Spot Depression: Symptoms, Warning Signs, Medication
Know when you or someone else is depressed. Get information on depression symptoms, signs, tests, and treatments for many types of depression chronic depression and postpartum depression.Depression Quiz
Many people do not recognize the symptoms and warning signs of depression and depressive disorders in children and adults. With proper diagnosis, treatments and medications are available. Take this quiz to learn more about recovery from depression.Depression Tips Slides
The right exercise, diet, and activities -- even playing with a pet --can help you recover from depression. Learn simple lifestyle changes you can do to improve your mood.Does Blue Light Help Your Mood?
Blue light has a short wavelength and a high amount of energy. Adequate exposure to the natural blue light is known to lift your mood, attention and reaction times during the day.How Does Depression Affect a Person's Behavior?
Depression — a serious mood disorder — is the most common mental health disorder. It can interfere with your thoughts, your feelings, and daily activities like sleeping, eating, and working.Is Journaling Good for Mental Health?
Journaling is the process of writing down your thoughts, ideas, and feelings. While writing your way out of depression might not be possible, journaling may help lower symptoms of depression.What Are the 4 Types of Depression?
Depression is a common yet serious mood disorder. The four types of depression include major depression, bipolar disorder, persistent depressive disorder and seasonal affective disorder.Zoloft vs. Celexa
Zoloft (sertraline) and Celexa (citalopram hydrobromide) are antidepressants called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) prescribed to treat depression. Zoloft is also used to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), social anxiety disorder, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).Zoloft vs. Lexapro
Zoloft (sertraline) and Lexapro (escitalopram) are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) used for treating depression, and anxiety disorders. Zoloft is also approved for post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).