For which symptoms might bright light therapy be considered?

Bright light therapy is primarily indicated for managing seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression that typically occurs during the fall and winter months when natural sunlight exposure decreases. The therapy involves exposure to artificial light that mimics natural sunlight, helping to alleviate depressive symptoms by affecting biological processes related to mood regulation.

During the fall and winter, individuals may experience symptoms such as low energy, lethargy, and changes in mood due to the lack of sunlight, which can disrupt circadian rhythms and melatonin production. Bright light therapy effectively addresses these issues by helping to reset the body’s internal clock, enhancing mood and energy levels.

In contrast, other symptoms listed, such as chronic pain, weight gain, and general anxiety, do not have strong connections to light therapy. While some forms of anxiety might be influenced by changes in mood, bright light therapy is not a standard or widely recognized treatment for those conditions.