Longevity & AgingISBD Issues First Clinical Guidelines for Light Therapy in Bipolar Disorder
The International Society for Bipolar Disorders (ISBD) Chronobiology and Chronotherapy Task Force published comprehensive clinical recommendations for bright light therapy (BLT) in bipolar disorder (BD). Drawing on the full body of available evidence, the task force concludes that adjunctive BLT is likely efficacious for acute bipolar depression. Recommended protocols mirror those used for seasonal and non-seasonal major depressive disorder: 30 minutes daily, preferably in the morning or at midday, with clinical improvement expected within 1–2 weeks and response or remission by 4–6 weeks. Anti-manic prophylaxis—particularly for BD-I patients—and ongoing mood monitoring are required safety measures. The guidelines also highlight the neurobiological rationale involving the suprachiasmatic nucleus, melanopsin-containing retinal ganglion cells, and circadian rhythm disruption as central to BD pathophysiology.
