Specific behavioral consequences of seasonal affective disorder have not been closely examined. Length of daylight is evaluated in relation to medication errors in a medical center located in the far north. Factors such as numbers of patient admissions, discharges, and deaths were controlled with data collected in Anchorage, Alaska, over 5 [...]
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of light therapy for the treatment of pediatric seasonal affective disorder (SAD). METHOD: 28 children (aged 7 to 17 years) at two geographically distinct sites were enrolled in a double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial of bright-light treatment. Subjects initially entered a week-long baseline period during which they [...]
The eye's retina contains light receptors known as cones and rods. These receptors receive light, convert it to chemical energy, and activate the nerves that send messages to the brain. They were thought to be the only photoreceptors in the retina. "When we began to do our work, we knew there [...]
“For many patients with SAD [Seasonal Affective Disorder], light therapy should be regarded as a first-line treatment, given its high success and acceptance rate.” Journal of the American Medical Association, v. 270, #22, pp. 2717-20 For more information, please contact: Sunshine Sciences PO Box 19917 Boulder, CO 80308 303 834-9161 [...]
Several very recent studies, most notably research from a team headed by Dr. George Brainard at Thomas Jefferson Medical College in Philadelphia, have identified the specific wavelengths of blue light, 446-477nm, that are crucial in suppressing melatonin production in humans.1, 2, 3, 4 As Dr. Brainard notes, “This discovery will have [...]
While typically associated with soldiers who have been in military combat, any event that causes fear and stress can trigger Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). A natural disaster such as Superstorm Sandy or an earthquake, or a crisis such as the Boston Marathon bombing or 9/11, can spark an incident of PTSD. [...]
Envision this: Within two years of a correctional facility's construction, staff and inmate attitudes have soared; construction and operational costs have been reduced; security and conditions of confinement have improved; and the facility's presence has improved area property values, boosted local business and become a symbol of community pride. Pipe dream? [...]
After years of trying to bring proper light to an English prison, Michaele Wynn-Jones, asks why the authorities seem content to subject people to such glare and gloom. Imagine living up to 23 hours a day in a confined space the size of the average bathroom complete with open toilet, under [...]
OBJECTIVE: About 5% of pregnant women meet criteria for major depression. No pharmacotherapy is specifically approved for antepartum depression; novel treatment approaches may be welcome. The authors explored the use of morning bright light therapy for antepartum depression. METHOD: An open trial of bright light therapy in an A-B-A design was [...]
Prominent PMS researcher, Barbara Parry, MD, of the University of California, San Diego, recently established that premenstrual syndrome is related to light and that phototherapy can alleviate PMS symptoms. Dr. Parry identified a woman in southern California who has PMS only during the winter. Parry used specially designed lights to regulate [...]