Bright Light Therapy to Treat Depression in Adolescents with Evening Chronotype A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the effectiveness of bright light therapy as a treatment for adolescents aged 12 to 19 who have unipolar non-seasonal depression and an evening chronotype. This study is a randomized, placebo-controlled, and assessor-blinded trial conducted by the Chinese University of Hong Kong. It aims to compare the effects of bright light therapy against dim red light placebo on depression severity, sleep patterns, and circadian rhythms. Participants are randomly assigned to one of two groups the experimental group receives blue-enriched white light therapy, while the placebo group receives dim red light. Both treatments are administered daily for 15 to 30 minutes over an 8-week period. The study includes several assessment points at baseline, during treatment, after treatment, and at follow-up visits to monitor changes in clinical symptoms and sleep-related measures. During the study, participants will undergo evaluations with depression rating scales, sleep assessments, and measurement of circadian markers. Researchers will track adherence to the light therapy and monitor participants for any changes in depressive symptoms and other clinical signs. The primary outcome is the change in depressive symptoms shortly after the intervention, with additional secondary outcomes assessing other clinical symptom changes. The total study duration includes treatment and follow-up phases extending through the study timeline.

Adjunctive Bright Light Therapy in Adolescents With Depression and Eveningness