Morning bright light therapy for postpartum depression

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This is an open-label study using the Re-Timer wearable bright light device to deliver morning light therapy to individuals with postpartum depression. The trial aims to understand feasibility, acceptability, and how to implement morning bright light treatment in this population. Eligible participants are within six months of delivery and have an EPDS score greater than 10. No randomization or control group is involved, and the focus is on practical integration into care settings.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

1. ≤ 6 months postpartum
2. EPDS score \>10

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Current or past-year substance use disorder
2. Lifetime history of bipolar disorder or psychotic disorder
3. Active suicidal intent
4. Retinal pathology or history of eye surgery
5. Current use of photosensitizing medications
6. Untreated sleep-disordered breathing, untreated restless legs syndrome, or narcolepsy
7. Psychotherapy or psychotropic medications started/dose changed in past month (psychotherapy started and/or current medication at stable dose ≥ 4 weeks are permitted)
8. Medical conditions contraindicated for mBLT (e.g., epilepsy/seizures)

Where it's running

• University of Michigan
  Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Leslie Swanson, PhD — University of Michigan
• Study coordinator: Kelley DuBuc
• Email: dubuck@med.umich.edu
• Phone: 734-764-1904

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.