Light Box Therapy

Brighten your days: borrow a light therapy box from Saint Joseph’s University Counseling and Psychological Services!

Shorter daylight hours during the winter months can leave us feeling sluggish, foggy, or low. This is called Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), which is a type of depression that occurs at a certain time each year, most often in the fall or winter. Light therapy is a simple, evidence-based tool that uses safe, concentrated light to help reset your internal clock, boost morning alertness, and ease seasonal dips in mood.

CAPS now offers short-term light therapy box rentals for students who want a convenient, non-medication option to try at home.

What You'll Get

• A high-quality light box calibrated for therapeutic use (10,000 lux at the recommended distance).
• A clear, easy-to-follow instruction sheet with suggested daily timing and setup tips.
• A brief screening and check-in with CAPS staff to make sure light therapy is a good fit for you.

Who It's Best For

• People who notice seasonal changes in mood or energy.
• Anyone having trouble waking up in the morning or feeling unusually sleepy during the day.
• Those interested in trying bright light therapy alongside counseling or other wellness strategies.

How Rentals Work

• Rentals are available between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Students currently in therapy at CAPS can speak with their therapist and discuss renting a unit.
• Students who are not current CAPS clients can request a rental by contacting CAPS at 610-660-1090.
• Schedule and complete a short suitability screening with a staff member.
• Pick up the unit and instruction materials at CAPS.
• Follow the manufacturer's instructions for use, which are included with the light box.
• Try the light box for the agreed rental period (most often 2 weeks) with staff available for questions.
• Return the unit and all instructions at the end of your rental or arrange a short extension if needed.

How Light Therapy Works

• When to Use It
  • Morning use is best. Most people benefit from using the light box as soon as possible after waking up, ideally between 6:00–9:00 a.m.
  • Avoid using it late in the day or at night, since it can make it harder to fall asleep.
• How Long to Use It
  • Start with 20–30 minutes each morning.
  • Some people need more or less time; you can adjust gradually based on how you feel.
  • When using light box therapy, you should keep to a regular sleep schedule (going to sleep and waking up at regular times, for example, 11 p.m. to 7 a.m.).
  • Use it daily for the best results! Benefits may appear after 1–2 weeks.
• How to Position the Light Box
  • Place the light box about 16–24 inches from your face (check the device’s instructions).
  • The light should shine toward your eyes indirectly, not straight into them.
  • Keep your eyes open, but do not stare directly at the light.
  • Position the light slightly above eye level, angled downward.
• What to Do During Use
  • You can read, eat breakfast, study, or work while using the light box; just keep your face turned toward the light.
  • Avoid looking directly into the light for long periods.
  • To be effective, light from the light box must enter your eyes directly. Sleeping with the light box on will not be effective.

When to Expect Results

• Many users notice improvements in energy, mood, and concentration within 1–2 weeks.
• Continue consistent daily use for the full rental period to get the most benefit.

Cleaning and Care

• Wipe the unit gently with a soft, dry cloth.
• Do not spray cleaners or water directly on the light box.
• Always unplug when not in use.
• Return the unit in the same condition you received it or you may be asked to replace it.

• Check with a healthcare provider before starting if you have:
  • Bipolar disorder or a history of manic episodes
  • Eye conditions (e.g., retinal disease, glaucoma)
  • Sensitivity to light or are taking photosensitizing medications (certain antibiotics, acne medications, etc.)
• Light therapy is generally safe for many people but may not be for everyone. This is why we screen for conditions such as bipolar disorder, certain eye issues, and medications that increase photosensitivity. If side effects occur, including headaches, eye strain, nausea, or dizziness, they are usually mild and happen at the beginning of treatment, getting better after a few days. Side effects may also be relieved by reducing your daily exposure time or by increasing the distance you are sitting from the light. If these symptoms continue, or if at any time you experience increased irritability/agitation or unusual changes in mood or sleep, stop use and contact CAPS or your medical provider.

• Light box therapy is only one means to treat depression brought upon by Seasonal Affective Disorder. Please consult a mental health professional or other healthcare provider if you have concerns about seasonal depression. For more information about SAD, please visit National Institute of Mental Health: Seasonal Affective Disorder.

Contact CAPS to learn more. We’re here to help you find the right approach to feeling better during the darker months!

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