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Treatment Study
| Principal Investigator: | Julie Weiner, Research Coordinator, Sleep Disorders Institute, at (212) 523-1780. | |
| Time frame of study: | Ongoing | |
| Time frame of participation: | N/A | |
| Number of participants needed: | Open | |
| Location of Study: | St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center The Sleep Disorders Institute 432 W. 58th Street |
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| Contact Name, Number & Email: | Dr. Rice at 212-523-1780 |
Summary:
Many people who suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) find relief from their symptoms through the use of controlled bright light exposure. However, many people report that such treatment can be inconvenient, as light boxes are stationary, and head-mounted devices limit visibility. The Sleep Disorders Institute is preparing to conduct a study to test a new light delivery device for the treatment of SAD which is much more convenient to use. This device, called an Interactive Light Field, resembles a pair of sporty sunglasses and is portable, lightweight and easy to use. The lighting source is housed in a unit that is worn away from the head (like a walkman).
Criteria for Participation:
To be eligible for participation in this study, you must be between the ages of 18-60, and also have Recurrent Major Depressive Disorder with Seasonal Pattern (also known as Seasonal Affective Disorder/SAD).
Preliminary screening of interested people is currently underway. If you believe you may be appropriate for the study, contact the Institute immediately to arrange an appointment for screening. Once your symptoms appear, the staff of the Institute will assess their severity and an eye doctor will check to make sure it is all right for you to be in the study. If you are determined to be appropriate for the study, you will be able to begin light treatment as soon as possible.
Benefit of Participation:
All study participants will be given light devices to be used at home each morning for three weeks. Each subject will be asked to return to the Sleep Disorders Institute once a week to return daily sleep logs and have his/her progress monitored. Each subject who completes the study will be paid $100.