Citation

House LA, Walton B. J. Coll. Stud. Psychother. 2018; 32(1): 42-52.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2018, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/87568225.2017.1321975

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

There is a growing number of students on college campuses with mental health problems and college counseling services are reporting significant increases in student demand for counseling. Depression, a mental illness consisting of profound sadness, fatigue, and irritability, as well as low motivation, poor academic performance, and suicidal behaviors, is one of the top presenting concerns for students who seek help. This study investigates the effectiveness of light therapy in a sample of 79 college students who suffer from depression. This study examines changes in overall depression scores and also assesses changes in sleep, appetite, pain, and concentration levels.

RESULTS showed significant improvements in overall depression scores as well as improved sleeping behaviors and decreases in somatic aches and pains, concentration difficulties, and appetite problems. These promising results suggest light therapy may be an effective and inexpensive means for reducing symptoms of young adult depression.

Language: en

Keywords

College student mental health; depression; light box; light therapy; seasonal affective disorder