Morning light exposure to improve mood in military personnel

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 clinical trial investigates the effects of daily morning light therapy on mood regulation and suicidal ideation among military personnel. Over a three-year period, 400 participants will undergo a double-blind, placebo-controlled study, where they will receive either active light exposure or a placebo for 30 minutes each morning. The study aims to assess improvements in sleep-wake patterns and mental health outcomes, including suicidal thoughts, while also evaluating the acceptability of using a light headset device. The trial focuses on the relationship between circadian rhythms and emotional well-being in a military context.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Ages 18-60 years
* At least an 8th grade reading level
* Score ≥ 5 (i.e., mild depression or greater) on the Patient Health Questionnaire 9 (PHQ-9)
* Service member of any Armed Forces branch, including active duty, Reserve, or National Guard

Exclusion Criteria:

* Not actively serving in an Armed Force branch
* Scored (i.e., \< 5) range on the PHQ-9 (non-depressed)
* Pregnant or trying to become pregnant
* Breastfeeding
* History of psychotic disorder or manic episodes
* Bipolar disorder
* Diseases of the eye
* Have had cataract surgery
* Frequent and light-sensitive migraine headaches
* Self-reported plan to regularly engage in nightshift work during the 6-week course of the study

Where it's running

• University of Arizona
  Tucson, Arizona, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: William D Killgore, Ph.D.
• Email: killgore@arizona.edu
• Phone: (520) 621-0605

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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.