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By Mayo Clinic staffBefore starting light therapy, check with your doctor and mental health provider to be sure that light therapy is a good option for you, and to find out whether you need to take any special precautions.
Internet retailers, drugstores and even some hardware stores offer a variety of light therapy boxes. Or your doctor may prescribe a particular light therapy box. In some cases, health insurance companies require a prescription from a doctor to cover the cost of a light therapy box. Talk with your doctor about the best light therapy box for you, and familiarize yourself with the variety of features and options to help ensure that you buy one that is safe and effective for you.
Although it's possible to do light therapy on your own, it's best have the guidance of a doctor or mental health provider. This can help you get the most benefit out of light therapy and minimize possible side effects.
- Rosenthal NE, et al. Light therapy. In: Gabbard GO, et al. Treatments of Psychiatric Disorders. 4th ed.: American Psychiatric Publishing; 2007. http://www.psychiatryonline.com/content.aspx?aID=257853. Accessed July 13, 2010.
- Terman M. Evolving applications of light therapy. Sleep Medicine Reviews. 2007;11:497.
- Shirani A, et al. Illuminating rationale and uses for light therapy. Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine. 2009;5:155.
- Practice guideline for the treatment of patients with major depressive disorder. 2nd ed. American Psychiatric Association. http://www.psychiatryonline.com/content.aspx?aID=49541&searchStr=phototherapy#49541. Accessed July 13, 2010.
- Howland RH. Somatic therapies for seasonal affective disorder. Journal of Psychological Nursing. 2009;47:17.
- Sivamani RK, et al. The benefits and risks of ultraviolet tanning and its alternatives: The role of prudent sun exposure. Dermatologic Clinics. 2009;27:129.
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