Once the target plan is achieved, it can be met by regularly using a shorter duration of bright light in the evening. Light therapy is not considered a cure for sleep disorders, depression, or other conditions. Light therapy is not considered a cure for sleep disorders, depression, or other conditions. Insomnia may occur alone or be associated with a mental disorder such as depression or anxiety, Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, or another health condition.
However, it can be helpful to improve your energy levels and help you fall asleep or wake up more easily. By exposing your eyes to sun-like light, light therapy helps adjust your circadian rhythm back to the patterns of the sun. Patients usually use a light box with a light intensity of 10,000 lux. Trusted Source National Center for Biotechnology Information The National Center for Biotechnology Information promotes science and health by providing access to biomedical and genomic information.
How does a lightbox help with sleep disorders?
If you prefer, you can wear a so-called lightweight visor on your head so that you can move during your training sessions. Your doctor may recommend light therapy in the morning, but for SAD symptoms, it is sometimes recommended for later in the day to counteract the effects of early sunset in fall and winter. Research shows that higher light intensity has helped people with sleep disorders, particularly people with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia-related insomnia. Treating sleep problems may have the added benefit of relieving depression, and light therapy may play a role in this.