Non-randomised trial, 1994
Does bright light therapy reduce depression and anxiety before the period?
Evening bright light significantly reduced depression symptoms. It tended to reduce anxiety and sluggishness, but these improvements were not statistically significant. More research is needed.
What they did
Crossover trial with 10 women who had documented PMS. Each woman received either morning or evening bright light (more than 2,500 lux) during the premenstrual phase of two different menstrual cycles. Depression, anxiety, and hibernation symptoms were measured before and after treatment.
What they found
Evening light significantly reduced depression scores. Light treatment tended to reduce anxiety and hibernation ratings, but the reductions were not statistically significant. Morning light was not tested separately.
What it means for you
Bright light in the evening might help with depression before your period. The study is too small and lacks a proper control group to be sure. Larger, controlled studies are needed before bright light can be recommended.
10
Women with PMS
2,500
Light intensity in lux
2
Different menstrual cycles tested
About the study
- Original title
- The Effects of Bright Light Therapy on Symptoms of Depression, Anxiety, and Hibernation in Patients with Premenstrual Syndrome
- Authors
- Gabrielle Cerda, Barbara L. Parry
- Journal
- Journal of Women s Health
- Year
- 1994
- Study design
- Non-randomised trial
- What was tested
- Bright light therapy greater than 2,500 lux, delivered in the morning or evening during the premenstrual phase
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.1089/jwh.1994.3.5
Topics
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