Red Light Therapy for Anxiety, Depression & Mental Health

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Red Light Therapy for Anxiety, Depression & Mental Health

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Introduction: Red Light Therapy for Mental Health

There is a well-documented and increasing prevalence of mental health disorders, particularly anxiety disorders, major depressive disorder (MDD), and other stress-related conditions, creating a need for innovative approaches to treatment. Red light therapy is one such emerging modality. Based on recent human studies and clinical trials, we've integrated wavelength insights and pre-built modes from our Total Spectrum devices for targeted neurological support.

While the full impact of red light therapy on mental health is still under investigation, preliminary evidence demonstrates promising neurobiological effects. A key question is whether light-emitting diodes (LEDs) can administer an adequate dose of red or near-infrared light to affect deeper cortical and subcortical brain regions. Emerging evidence indicates that this form of therapy can contribute to symptomatic improvement in anxiety and depressive disorders.

How Red Light Therapy Works for Mental Health

Light is a form of electromagnetic energy. While certain types, like blue and ultraviolet (UV) light, can be associated with biological damage when used in excess, red and near-infrared light have demonstrated numerous therapeutic benefits. This process, known as photobiomodulation, involves the controlled application of specific light wavelengths to stimulate cellular and molecular pathways, promoting tissue repair, anti-inflammatory responses, and neuromodulation.

The human body's cells contain mitochondria, which are organelles that are critical for cellular energy metabolism. When exposed to red or near-infrared light within the wavelength range of 600 nm to 1000 nm, these mitochondria are stimulated, thereby promoting increased cellular energy production, proliferation, and tissue repair.

  1. Mitochondrial Activation: 660-810 nm supports adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production, enhancing neuronal viability.
  2. Neuroinflammation Reduction: May help modulate inflammatory cytokine activity associated with mood disorders.
  3. Blood Flow Increase: Nitric oxide (NO) release can dilate blood vessels and support improved oxygenation in the prefrontal cortex.
  4. Neurogenesis Support: Upregulates brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Preclinical studies, particularly in post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) models, demonstrate its potential to facilitate hippocampal repair.
  5. Mood Regulation: May support serotonergic and dopaminergic pathways. Clinical trials report symptom reduction in anxiety disorders.

Initially, researchers believed these benefits were primarily related to physical tissue repair. However, emerging research suggests that photobiomodulation may have potential for mental health applications, with studies exploring its effects on conditions like PTSD, depression, and anxiety. While questions remain about the optimal light penetration depth required for neurological conditions like Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s disease, the therapy shows potential for influencing brain states related to mood.

It is important to note that red light therapy should be considered an adjunctive treatment and not a replacement for professional mental health care or established therapies.

Understanding the Pathophysiology of Mental Health

To elucidate the therapeutic effects of red light therapy within mental health, it is useful to review some of the underlying biological theories related to depression and anxiety disorder.

  1. Neurotransmitter Imbalance: Dysregulated serotonergic and dopaminergic signaling can impair mood stability; RLT may modulate neurotransmitter synthesis and release via the upregulation of BDNF.
  2. Decreased Cerebral Blood Flow: Reduced cerebral blood flow in the prefrontal cerebral cortex is associated with cognitive impairment; NIR has been shown to increase cerebral blood flow.
  3. Decreased Cellular Energy: Mitochondrial dysfunction and reduced ATP production are observed in mood disorders; RLT can boost ATP production.
  4. Neuroinflammation: Elevated pro-inflammatory cytokines have been linked to anxiety; RLT could help suppress them.
  5. Hippocampal Atrophy: Chronic stress is associated with hippocampal volume reduction; RLT may promote neurogenesis.

1. Neurotransmitter Imbalance: This theory suggests that dysregulation of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine can contribute to emotional and cognitive disturbances.

2. Decreased Cerebral Blood Flow: Reduced blood flow, particularly in the prefrontal cortex, can lead to reduced oxygen delivery and potentially impair brain function. Adequate blood circulation is essential for delivering nutrients and oxygen to brain cells.

3. Decreased Cellular Energy: This theory highlights the negative impact of mitochondrial dysfunction and impaired glucose metabolism in the brain, which lead to insufficient energy delivery for optimal brain cell function. This is where red light therapy, by stimulating the mitochondria, may have a direct impact.

What Research Says

Emerging evidence supports the use of photobiomodulation for mental health, with promising preliminary outcomes. A 2009 feasibility study involving 10 patients with major depression and anxiety suggested that treatment with near-infrared light may have utility for the treatment of depression and other psychiatric disorders [1].

This aligns with other research indicating that red light therapy, by enhancing mitochondrial function, can support neuronal repair and neurogenesis. Early clinical data on photobiomodulation for neuropsychiatric disorders indicates that it is well tolerated and safe and may have potential efficacy in alleviating symptoms of depression and anxiety [2]. Brain metabolism, inflammation, oxidative stress, and neurogenesis are potentially effective targets for photobiomodulation in depression.

Clinical Studies

  1. Study 1: Psychological Benefits of Transcranial NIR Laser in Major Depression and Anxiety (2009).
    Objective: Explore transcranial NIR in major depressive disorder (MDD) and anxiety (n=10).
    Results: 54.3 ± 26.1% decrease in depression score (HAM-D) two weeks post-treatment and significant decrease in anxiety score.
    Conclusion: Preliminary findings suggest transcranial near-infrared light therapy was safe and may have potential benefits for depression and anxiety.
  2. Study 2: Review of Transcranial Photobiomodulation for Major Depressive Disorder (2016).
    Objective: Review mechanisms in MDD and other comorbid psychiatric syndromes.
    Results: Near-infrared light may reduce inflammation and support brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) activity in animal models.
    Conclusion: Transcranial photobiomodulation is a promising adjunctive approach, though additional controlled human studies are needed.

Introduction: Red Light Therapy for Seasonal Affective Disorder

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is one of the forms of depression that arrives with the seasons, typically in fall and winter when sunlight is scarce. SAD hurts your mood, fatigues you, hinders concentration, and disturbs sleep. Individuals who suffer from SAD typically resort to the usual treatments, such as antidepressants and light therapy, but the therapies do not always fully cure the disease. They're not for everyone and can have undesirable side effects occasionally.

Red light therapy is not a pharmaceutical or safe treatment, but it can improve mood, reduce stress, improve depression, and improve mental health during the dark winter months. It enhances healthy cell activity, improves circulation, and balances the natural hormones that affect sleep and mood, such as melatonin and serotonin, by utilizing specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light.

Here, we will discuss how red light therapy for SAD works, what the science is telling us about its effectiveness, and how to use it safely at home so that you can feel more energized and emotionally even during the long winter months.

Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder: Causes and Symptoms

SAD, or Seasonal Affective Disorder, is a depression that occurs during particular seasons of the year. It usually begins during the fall and continues through the winter months. During these months, cloudiness and shorter days result in less sunlight exposure, which can disrupt the body's inner clock and change mood, energy levels, and sleep patterns.

The underlying cause of SAD is not known, but it is believed to be caused by imbalances in hormones, such as changes in serotonin and melatonin. Genetics, age, and where one resides might also contribute, making certain individuals more susceptible to seasonal change in mood.

Symptoms of SAD are usually long-term low mood, tiredness, trouble concentrating, irritability, and disruption of sleep or appetite. Other individuals may become depressed or refuse to speak to others.

Challenges with Traditional SAD Treatments

Unfortunately, standard treatments for SAD may not be very effective. If you are already depressed and feeling low, attempting these treatments to improve might actually cause more frustration and disappointment. The standard treatments are antidepressant drugs, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and bright light therapy. These treatments may work, but have some drawbacks. Antidepressants are drugs that take weeks to produce effects and can produce side effects like nausea, weight gain, or insomnia. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a viable option, but you have to go for regular sessions under the guidance of a professional, and it can be expensive and time-consuming. Bright light therapy, while effective for most, can lead to eye strain, headaches, or be unsuitable for those with some eye diseases.

These treatments, however, are not always complete in their alleviation of symptoms, and some patients might continue to have symptoms even after adhering to conventional therapies.

How Red Light Therapy Supports Mental Health in SAD

The Science Behind Red Light Therapy for Mood Regulation

Red light therapy is one type of photobiomodulation wherein low-level red and near-infrared light is used. Studies indicate these rays penetrate deeply into the skin and may stimulate the repair processes within the body. Red light therapy was previously believed to be effective only against skin and certain bodily conditions, but newer research suggests that it can also be beneficial for mental health and naturally boost mood.

Red light therapy stimulates the function of mitochondria, the energy-producing organelles in the cell, so that they radiate more energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). ATP, the energy currency of cells, aids in making multiple cellular activities possible and allows cells to repair and regenerate faster. Red light therapy thus helps recover damaged neurons and nerves and promotes proper transmission of nerve impulses.

Furthermore, research suggests red light therapy enhances circulation, delivering increased amounts of oxygen and nutrients to cells, thereby supporting the recovery process. In SAD patients, it ensures healthy nervous system function and supports the release of hormones for mood improvement and sleep. Red light therapy increases serotonin and dopamine levels, two neurotransmitters that naturally lift moods and induce feelings of pleasure. It also regulates the body's circadian rhythms by simulating sunlight, waking you up and energizing you during the day, and inducing nighttime sleep. It enhances the production of melatonin, the sleep hormone, when used at night. 

Overall, red light therapy assists with the tired, sad, and low-energy symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

Clinical Studies on Red Light Therapy for SAD Patients

Study 1: Transcranial Photobiomodulation (t-PBM) Procedure for Depression.

Objective

This research sought to determine whether shining near-infrared (NIR) light on the brain—a treatment known as transcranial photobiomodulation (t-PBM)—will make individuals with major depressive disorder (MDD) feel better. The researchers hoped to evaluate whether this light therapy would help elevate mood and decrease depressive symptoms in a safe manner.

Results

The research demonstrated that t-PBM was effective in its antidepressant effect. The participants indicated significant improvements in their scores for depression, with medium to large effects depending on the analysis of the data. The therapy was also well tolerated, and no serious side effects were observed, indicating the treatment is safe.

Conclusion

Near-infrared light treatment of the brain can potentially be a safe and effective method for alleviating depression symptoms. Although the findings are promising, the trial had limited participants, so more extensive studies are necessary to ensure its efficacy and to learn more about how it operates.

Study 2: Effects of Red Light on Sleep and Mood in Insomnia.

Objective

The investigation focused on observing the effects of red light exposure at night on sleep and mood in individuals with insomnia disorder (ID) and controls. The researchers were interested in learning how alterations in mood could impact sleep. They found that red light increased subjective alertness, anxiety, and negative emotions in both healthy subjects and people with insomnia.

Results

Red light exposure enhanced alertness and, in a few instances, negative affect and anxiety among healthy participants as well as insomnia sufferers. Red light decreased the time to fall asleep among healthy participants but decreased total sleep quality. Among insomnia sufferers, red light improved some areas of sleep, such as improving total sleep time, sleep efficiency, and REM cycles, but also increased alertness and negative affect. Some of the alterations in sleep were caused by the rise in adverse emotions resulting from red light.

Conclusion

Red light at night can have mood and alerting effects, with consequent direct or indirect effects on sleep. Although it can enhance some measures of sleep in insomniacs, it may increase negative mood, and its use must be carefully controlled.

Note

These clinical trials do not directly prove the effectiveness of red light therapy for SAD, but they show that it can effectively improve mood and reduce depression by stimulating the production of dopamine and serotonin, and also enhance sleep quality by promoting melatonin production.

Introduction: Red Light Therapy for PTSD

Post-traumatic stress Disorder (PTSD) affects millions of individuals worldwide and is a very difficult condition to have. It may be caused by a traumatic experience or a witness to a traumatic experience, like an accident, war, death of a loved one, loss of a job, or even a failure in a major exam. Anxiety, flashbacks, changes in mood, sleeping problems, and being unable to cope with everyday life are typical symptoms.


Most individuals with PTSD resort to conventional therapies but end up being disappointed with the outcomes. Such techniques may provide momentary relief and may not adequately deal with the intricacies involved in PTSD. While some medications and therapies may help people sleep, they don't deal with stress, which is the underlying reason.  The solution may lie in red light therapy.  By lowering stress hormones, encouraging relaxation, reducing inflammation, and bolstering the brain's capacity for adaptation and recovery, this non-invasive technique may support the body's natural recovery process.  This article will discuss the advantages of red light treatment for PTSD, as well as what recent studies have to say about its efficacy.

Understanding PTSD: Causes, Symptoms, and Impact

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a psychiatric condition that arises after experiencing or witnessing a severely distressing or life-threatening experience. The typical causes of PTSD include trauma from war combat, natural disasters, serious accidents, assault, or the death of a loved one through sudden death. Even losses like job loss or emotional trauma can cause PTSD in some individuals.

Red Light Therapy for PTSD

The symptoms of PTSD vary for different people and may range from mild to severe. You may experience nightmares, flashbacks, extreme fear, mood swings, irritability, and sleeplessness. Negative thoughts, emotional numbness, and failure to connect with others are also common for most people. These symptoms may last for months or years if not addressed.


It is never a choice to live with these complicated symptoms, as they have a great impact on your everyday life. You might be unable to handle even the most minor things, struggle to focus on your job, and become tense in relationships. PTSD also results in physical weakness.

Challenges with Traditional PTSD Treatments

It is not easy to manage PTSD through the traditional approach. With all this available, there is little patience to endure side effects and wait for gradual improvement. The most prevalent treatments for PTSD are psychotherapies and medications. Psychotherapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure therapy can be effective, but take time to produce effects and sometimes can prove to be emotionally exhausting.


Others prefer pills, such as antidepressants or anti-anxiety drugs, in hopes of quicker relief. These can alleviate symptoms but come with such issues as addiction and side effects such as weakness or dizziness. Most of these treatments target symptom relief or temporary relief, not complete and lasting cure of PTSD.

How Red Light Therapy Supports Mental and Emotional Health

The Science Behind Red Light Therapy for PTSD Relief

Red light therapy, which is also referred to as photobiomodulation or low-level laser therapy, is a holistic, non-surgical technique applied with precise wavelengths of red and near-infrared light. Early research suggests these wavelengths penetrate the skin , triggering the body's natural repair processes. Red light therapy primarily assists the mitochondria, the cellular organelles that produce energy in the form of ATP. Increased energy production leads to more efficient function of cells, faster repair of damage, and less inflammation.

Red light therapy is being recognized as a potential solution for enhancing mood, sleep quality, and stress reduction. Dopamine aids relaxation and euphoria, while serotonin is needed to balance emotions. Red light therapy can raise the levels of both dopamine and serotonin, which accounts for its anti-depression and anti-anxiety effects.


Studies further indicate that brain structure and function change in response to environmental stimuli, but PTSD makes this change maladaptive. Red light therapy has a beneficial effect on brain function through improving concentration, thought clarity, and relaxation, all of which aid in improved cognitive and emotional function. Red light therapy has been associated with better sleep cycle quality by triggering melatonin production, which may help the body and mind recover naturally.

Clinical Studies on Red Light Therapy for PTSD Patients

Study 1: Effectiveness of Red Light Therapy in Reducing Anxiety and Depression: What Animal Studies Reveal.

Objective 

The study looked at the use of red light therapy (more specifically, near-infrared light) for treating depression and anxiety. While it's evident that this therapy is beneficial, scientists don't yet know what the optimal dose is or how it works. This study aimed to investigate the effects of different light doses on the behavior and neurochemistry of mice subjected to chronic stress.

Results

The stressed mice showed depression and anxiety, elevated levels of the stress hormone (cortisol), and chemical changes in the brain, reduced serotonin (which regulates mood), and elevated nitric oxide (involved in stress and inflammation). The mice showed improved behavioral responses with red light treatment and exhibited lower cortisol levels, elevated serotonin levels, and reduced nitric oxide levels. Among the three doses tested, 8 J/cm² proved to be the most effective. Doses lower and higher than this were less effective.


Conclusion 

Red light therapy reduced stress, anxiety, and depression in the mice. It did this by normalizing brain chemicals like serotonin and nitric oxide in key brain areas. The 8 J/cm² dose was most effective, indicating that the optimal light dose is necessary for the best effect.

Study 2: Lights at night: does photobiomodulation improve sleep?.

Objective

This review considered a novel, non-pharmacologic treatment called photobiomodulation—a light therapy that uses specific wavelengths of light. The aim was to explore how this light treatment can improve the quality of sleep, mainly because poor sleep impacts brain function, memory, and overall well-being and may even predispose to diseases like Alzheimer's.

Result

In animal tests, applying this light therapy at night helped the brain remove poisonous waste materials more effectively. That is, the treatment enabled the brain to operate more effectively during sleep by facilitating its cleaning system. 

Conclusion

Photobiomodulation could be a new hope for improving sleep without medication. By reinforcing brain activity at night, this low-tech light therapy could potentially lead to better sleep, sharper thinking, and better long-term health for millions.

Optimized Total Spectrum Mode for Mental Health

For mental health support, use the Mental Health & Brain mode on our Total Spectrum devices, which is the recommended mode to use with a Total Spectrum device for this condition. It emphasizes NIR for deep brain penetration and mood regulation.

Channel Wavelengths Intensity
1: Red 633, 660 nm 15%
2: NIR 810, 830, 850 nm 90%
3: Deep NIR 1064 nm 100%
4: Blue 400-500 nm range (480 nm channel) OFF

These percentages refer to the relative intensity settings for each device channel in the Total Spectrum program, not to clinical efficacy percentages or the proportion of each wavelength used in published studies.

Duration: 15 mins | Pulse: OFF | Beginner Distance: 1-2 feet. Target forehead/temples; use as an adjunct to professional care and established therapies.

Alternatively, for a custom mode tailored to mood, enter the following percentages in the 4 channels: Channel 1 (Red): 20%, Channel 2 (NIR): 60%, Channel 3 (Deep NIR): 20%, Channel 4 (Blue): OFF. This prioritizes NIR for brain penetration while maintaining red for mood support.

Red Light Therapy Protocol for Mental Well-Being

Where is the light applied?

For mental health applications, red or near-infrared light is transcranially applied, typically targeting the forehead to stimulate the prefrontal cortex, a key brain region involved in mood regulation, cognitive function, and emotional processing. The goal is for the light to penetrate the skull and modulate neuronal activity, thereby supporting neuroplasticity and symptom relief.

  1. Forehead/Temples: Primary site for prefrontal cortex and hippocampal stimulation.
  2. Occipital: Optional for relaxation and serotonin pathway modulation.
  3. Full Head: For comprehensive coverage in severe cases.

What is the recommended session length and frequency?

A general protocol is 20 to 30 minutes per session, conducted 3 to 5 times per week. For specific settings, it is best to follow our detailed instructions.

  1. Session Length: 15-20 mins daily for acute; 10 mins 3x/week maintenance.
  2. Frequency: 4-5x/week initial; taper to 2-3x/week.
  3. Duration: 4-8 weeks for noticeable mood shifts.

How long does it take to see results?

While individual responses vary, many users report noticing improvements within 2 to 4 weeks of consistent use.

What is the optimal distance and irradiance?

The distance depends on the device. For panel devices like the Total Spectrum series, a distance of 6 to 12 inches is recommended to achieve an effective irradiance of up to 125 mW/cm².

  1. Distance: 6-12 inches for 50-100 mW/cm²; closer for targeted. (All irradiance figures as measured with a Spectrometer)
  2. Irradiance: 20-50 mW/cm² for brain; avoid >100 to prevent warmth.
  3. Eye Safety: Closed eyes/goggles; no direct gaze.

What is the Best Light Therapy for Mental Health?

Red light therapy is a promising option due to its safety profile and potential for long-lasting outcomes when used as an adjunctive approach. Other forms of light therapy have also shown benefits. White light therapy, for example, is an established and effective treatment for seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Additionally, emerging research is exploring green and blue light therapies for their potential positive effects on mood and anxiety.

Which Red Light Wavelengths are Best?

The therapeutic benefits of red light therapy are delivered within a specific range of wavelengths, typically between 600 nm and 1000 nm.

Red Light

  1. 630-660 nm : This range has been associated with promoting wound recovery and helping to reduce inflammation . It has also been investigated for its potential benefits in treating mood disorders.

Near-Infrared Light

  1. 810 nm: This wavelength is often studied for its potential to improve brain function and mood.
  2. 830 nm: Research is exploring this wavelength for its potential to help with neurological conditions and enhance cognitive performance.
  3. 850 nm: Similar to 830 nm, this wavelength is studied for its effects on brain health and its ability to boost cognitive performance.
  4. 1064nm: For transcranial use (penetrates the skull).

Combination of Wavelengths

Some studies suggest that a combination of red and near-infrared wavelengths may produce synergistic effects for enhanced results.

Choosing a Red Light Therapy Device

When considering at-home treatment, selecting the right device is crucial. High-quality, affordable panels are now widely available from reputable brands. Among our RLT Home devices, the TotalSpectrum series is designed to deliver a range of therapeutic wavelengths with sufficient power for effective treatment.

The TotalSpectrum ULTRA 7-band red light therapy panel

For those struggling with stress, depression, or anxiety, having access to medical-grade red light therapy at home can be a valuable addition to a comprehensive wellness plan. With consistent, at-home use, it offers a promising approach to supporting both mental and physical health.

Conclusion: The Role of Red Light Therapy in Mental Health Management

Why are More People Turning to Red Light Therapy for Mental Health?

More people are turning to red light therapy for mental health because it is one of the safest treatments that supports the repair and growth of brain cells. It addresses the underlying physiological issues such as mitochondrial dysfunction and neuroinflammation, offering a natural approach to managing symptoms of depression and anxiety. This can also be beneficial for related conditions like ADHD or trauma.

What are the Dangers of Red Light Therapy?

Red light therapy is generally safe. However, user errors can sometimes lead to mild issues such as skin irritation or redness. Direct exposure of the light to the eyes can also cause slight discomfort. These effects are generally temporary.

FAQs: Addressing Common Questions

Does red light therapy help with anxiety and depression?

Yes, red light therapy can help with anxiety and depression by improving cellular energy and reducing neuroinflammation.

How often should you do red light therapy for mental health?

Red light therapy for mental health should be done 3 to 5 times a week, with each session lasting 20 to 30 minutes.

Can red light therapy be used for PTSD?

Yes, red light therapy can be used as an adjunctive treatment for PTSD, supporting brain repair and reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Is red light therapy safe for daily use?

Yes, red light therapy is safe for daily use when following the recommended dosage and guidelines.

What is the best therapy light for SAD?

The best therapy light for SAD is a high-quality red and near-infrared light device that safely boosts mood, energy, and sleep. It should be easy to use at home with adjustable settings for comfort and effectiveness.

Is red light therapy effective for depression?

Yes, red light therapy is effective for depression because it stimulates the production of serotonin and dopamine and promotes healthy sleep by boosting melatonin production.

Is red light therapy effective for depression?

Yes, red light therapy can help with depression by naturally boosting mood through serotonin and dopamine. It also improves sleep by increasing melatonin levels.

Does red light therapy help PTSD?

Yes, red light therapy helps with PTSD by stimulating cellular recovery and enhancing the production of mood-regulating hormones such as serotonin and dopamine.

What is the best therapy for someone with PTSD?

Light treatment for PTSD uses red and near-infrared light that studies report may help the brain recover and improve mood. It’s safe, non-invasive, and often used in conjunction with therapy for enhanced results.

What is the light treatment for PTSD?

The ideal treatment for an individual with PTSD is usually trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). Red light therapy is also being considered as a support option—early evidence suggests it has the potential to benefit by stimulating cellular repair and stabilizing mood-related hormones such as serotonin and dopamine

What is the fastes.t way to calm PTSD?

The fastest way to treat PTSD is to focus on your breathing, spend time with loved ones, and do what makes you feel relaxed. These practices help you calm down faster.


References

  1. Psychological benefits of transcranial laser in major depression: a preliminary report.
  2. Review of transcranial photobiomodulation for major depressive disorder: targeting brain metabolism, inflammation, and neurogenesis.
  3. Effects of red light on sleep and mood in healthy subjects and individuals with insomnia disorder.
  4. Transcranial photobiomodulation prevents anxiety and depression via changing serotonin and nitric oxide levels in the brain of depression model mice: A study of three different doses of 810 nm laser.
  5. Lights at night: Does photobiomodulation improve sleep?

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4 comments

Is there a specific infrared light unit for home use to treat anxiety/depression that you would recommend? Thank you for your assistance

Wayne Ivary
RLT Home

@Wayne Ivary – Hi Wayne, all our devices come with a combined wavelength density of 33% for the 810nm and 1064nms. These are the two primary wavelengths for transcranial red light therapy. All our devices have these, you can choose any device – starting from the Mini/Focus, every device is built on the same grounding principles.

[#131750920359]

Red Light Therapy Home
RLT Home

@Wayne Ivary – Thanks for the question. For anxiety and depression, the Total Spectrum series uses the wavelengths most studied for transcranial photobiomodulation: 810 nm and 1064 nm with supporting bands at 830 and 850 nm. These are the active wavelengths in our Mental Health & Brain mode.

A Total Spectrum Mini or Compact is sufficient for head focused work. Use Mental Health & Brain mode at 1 to 2 feet, rotating through temples, forehead, top of the head, and base of the skull for about 2 to 3 minutes at each position, totalling 10 to 15 minutes per session, 5 days a week. Wear the blackout goggles provided due to the strong near infrared output near the face.

Most users see meaningful change over 4 to 8 weeks of consistent use, though responses vary.

This is general wellness guidance only and not medical advice. Please continue working with your mental health provider on diagnosis, treatment timing, and any medication adjustments.

[#131750887591]

Red Light Therapy Home

Is there a specific manufacturer of infrared light therapy devices to treat anxiety/depression that you recommend? Thank you for your assistance.

Wayne Ivary
RLT Home

@Wayne Ivary – Hi Wayne, all our devices come with a combined wavelength density of 33% for the 810nm and 1064nms. These are the two primary wavelengths for transcranial red light therapy. All our devices have these, you can choose any device – starting from the Mini/Focus, every device is built on the same grounding principles.

[#131750920359]

Red Light Therapy Home
RLT Home

@Wayne Ivary – Thanks for the question. For anxiety and depression, the Total Spectrum series uses the wavelengths most studied for transcranial photobiomodulation: 810 nm and 1064 nm with supporting bands at 830 and 850 nm. These are the active wavelengths in our Mental Health & Brain mode.

A Total Spectrum Mini or Compact is sufficient for head focused work. Use Mental Health & Brain mode at 1 to 2 feet, rotating through temples, forehead, top of the head, and base of the skull for about 2 to 3 minutes at each position, totalling 10 to 15 minutes per session, 5 days a week. Wear the blackout goggles provided due to the strong near infrared output near the face.

Most users see meaningful change over 4 to 8 weeks of consistent use, though responses vary.

This is general wellness guidance only and not medical advice. Please continue working with your mental health provider on diagnosis, treatment timing, and any medication adjustments.

[#131750887591]

Red Light Therapy Home

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