Treating winter depressive episodes in bipolar disorder: an open trial of light therapy

Abstract

Background: Light therapy has been used to treat winter depression in bipolar disorder, although the dose, duration, and timing of treatment have differed. The present study is an open trial of light therapy for depressive episodes in autumn/winter using a Dutch protocol specific for patients with a bipolar disorder.

Methods: Data were collected for the seasons September-April 2017-2018 and September-April 2018-2019. In total, 58 patients received light therapy for a minimum of 7 days and a maximum of 21 days; there was a follow-up measurement after two weeks. Outcomes were quick inventory of depressive symptomatology (QIDS) scores and side effects.

Results: QIDS scores were significantly lower at the last day of therapy (B = - 6.00, p < 0.001) and 2 weeks after the end of treatment (B = - 6.55, p < 0.001) compared with pre-intervention. Remission (QIDS ≤ 5) was reached in 55% of the treatments and response (50% symptom reduction) in 57% of the treatments. Side effects were mild; two hypomanic periods occurred.

Conclusions: The Dutch light therapy protocol for patients with a bipolar disorder may be effective in treating a seasonal depression and side effects are mild. Light therapy deserves a prominent place in the treatment because effects may be large and quick.

Keywords: Bipolar disorder; Light therapy; Seasonal affective disorder; Winter depression.

Fig. 1

Severity of depressive symptoms, categorised based on QIDS scores