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Light therapy is the use of a high-intensity fluorescent lamp (usually 10,000 lux) to treat a certain type of depression that occurs during the fall and winter months (seasonal affective disorder).
Lamps used for light therapy are brighter than ordinary indoor lighting. A person sits in front of the light for about 30 minutes a day. A person can usually read, use a computer, or do other types of desk work while sitting in front of the light.
Current as of: October 20, 2022
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine & Alfred Lewy MD, PhD - Psychiatry
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