Using bright light therapy to improve sleep in veterans with traumatic brain injury

Improving Sleep, Sleep-related Outcomes, and Biomarkers in Veterans

Not applicable Interventional Portland VA Medical Center · NCT03968874

This study is testing if morning bright light therapy can help veterans with traumatic brain injury sleep better and feel better overall.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment300 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 88 Years
SexAll
SponsorPortland VA Medical Center Federal
Locations1 site (Portland, Oregon)
Trial IDNCT03968874 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This project aims to evaluate the effects of morning bright light therapy (MBLT) on sleep quality in veterans suffering from traumatic brain injury (TBI). The study will also explore the impact of MBLT on cognitive function, mood, and quality of life, as well as investigate blood-based brain biomarkers associated with sleep. The intervention is designed to be simple and cost-effective, allowing for remote participation. By utilizing a biobehavioral approach, the study seeks to enhance understanding of TBI-related symptoms and improve overall patient outcomes.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are English-speaking veterans with a diagnosis of traumatic brain injury.

Not a fit: Patients with decisional impairment, macular degeneration, bipolar disorder, or those currently using light therapy devices may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly enhance sleep quality and overall well-being in veterans with TBI.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with bright light therapy in various neuropsychiatric populations, indicating potential for success in this novel application.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Veteran
* English-speaking
* Accessible by phone

Exclusion Criteria:

* Decisional impairment
* Macular degeneration
* Bipolar disorder
* Shift work
* Currently using lightbox or negative ion generator

Where this trial is running

Portland, Oregon

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Traumatic Brain InjuryVeterans
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.