Using bright light to help adolescents sleep better
Adolescent circadian phase shifts: novel time-of-day targets for bright light
This study is looking at how using bright light can help older teens who have trouble sleeping because their body clocks are changing during puberty, aiming to help them fall asleep earlier and feel more awake during the day.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rush University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10897082 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how bright light exposure can help older adolescents who are struggling with sleep deprivation due to their natural circadian rhythms shifting later during puberty. By using light boxes at specific times, the study aims to adjust these rhythms to promote earlier sleep onset and reduce issues like daytime sleepiness and poor academic performance. The researchers have developed phase response curves to determine the optimal timing for light exposure, which could lead to improved sleep patterns and overall well-being for adolescents.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 12 to 20 who experience sleep deprivation and related issues.
Not a fit: Patients who do not experience sleep issues or are outside the age range of 12 to 20 may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve sleep quality and mental health outcomes for adolescents.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with light therapy for circadian rhythm adjustments, indicating potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- Rush University Medical Center — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Crowley Mcwilliam, Stephanie — Rush University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Crowley Mcwilliam, Stephanie
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.