2009•PubMedOpen access

Illuminating rationale and uses for light therapy.

Afshin Shirani, Erik K. St. Louis

Abstract

Light therapy is increasingly applied in a variety of sleep medicine and psychiatric conditions including circadian rhythm sleep disorders, seasonal affective disorder, and dementia. This article reviews the neural underpinnings of circadian neurobiology crucial for understanding the influence of light therapy on brain function, common mood and sleep disorders in which light therapy may be effectively used, and applications of light therapy in clinical practice.

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Available abstract

Key concepts: Light therapy, Dark therapy, Circadian rhythm, Mood, Mood disorders, Psychotherapist, Medicine, Dementia