Remote Light Exposure Study

Study Description:

This research study from the Psychiatry Department will examine whether morning light exposure using light emitting glasses can improve mood through circadian rhythm realignment. Information gained from this study will support the relationship between the effects of light exposure on circadian rhythms and treating the symptoms that result from circadian misalignment.

Results from this study will be used to address the pervasive issue of sleep disruption and circadian misalignment and potentially improve the quality of life for members of the military. This information could be generalized to populations that deal with circadian misalignment like night-shift workers, as well as provide overall insight to other symptoms of low light exposure in the general population such as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). 

Participant Eligibility:

To participate in this study, you will need to meet the following requirements:

  • 18-60 years of age
  • Currently serving in the Armed Forces through Active Duty, Reserve, or National Guard
  • Score within moderate to severe range in on the Patient Health Questionnaire
  • Score at least 80% on the comprehension assessment

For safety reasons, you may be excluded if you report any of the following: a history of psychotic disorder or manic episodes, history of bipolar disorder, diseases of the eye, history of light-sensitive migraine headaches, sleep-related breathing disorders, self-reported use of sedative hypnotic sleep medication, self-reported use of prescription stimulants, self-reported use of melatonin supplements, self-reported plan to engage in nightshift work during the 6-week course of the study, or have a sleep schedule outside of normal day and night circadian sleep cycle. Women must not be breast-feeding, lactating, or actively trying to conceive.

Compensation:

  • If you complete all parts of the study, you will be compensated up to $500.00 in the form of a gift card of your choosing 
  • For successful completion of the study, you will also be able to keep the FitBit Charge 5, totaling a value of $695. 

Contact:

For mor information, email or call the researcher:
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An Institutional Review Board responsible for human subjects research at The University of Arizona reviewed this research project and found it to be acceptable according to applicable state and federal regulations and University policies designed to protect the rights and welfare of participants in research.

Updated: 03/13/24