IRB Registration Number(s): IRB00000244
This is a study evaluating the association between increasing duration of morning light treatment and the degree of change in amygdala reactivity to an emotional faces fMRI task in individuals with a history of traumatic stress. Participants will be randomized to receive 15/30/60-minutes per day of morning light treatment. Amygdala reactivity (via fMRI) and mood and traumatic stress symptoms will be assessed at baseline, after 2 weeks of treatment and after 4 weeks of treatment. In total, participants will be in the study for approximately 5 weeks: a week of baseline plus 4 weeks of treatment. Participants will be monitored via weekly visits for protocol adherence and treatment side effects.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Meets criteria for traumatic stress
- Normal or corrected to normal vision
- Right-handed
- Fluency in English
- Physically able to travel for study visit attendance
Exclusion Criteria:
- Significant chronic uncontrolled disease (e.g. uncontrolled diabetes, advanced liver disease, cancer, etc.)
- Severe hearing problem
- Intellectual disability or serious cognitive impairment
- Inability to tolerate enclosed spaces (e.g. the MRI machine)
- Ferrous-containing metals within the body
- Pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding
- Epilepsy
- Other research participation
- Frequent number of special events during study period (weddings, concerts, exams, etc.)
