Light therapy as a hope for adolescents with depression: Detailed scientific results of photobiomodulation

Every parent desires the best possible health for their child. However, if an adolescent shows symptoms of depression, such as sadness, anxiety, sleep disturbances, or loss of interest in usual activities, parents actively seek safe and effective solutions. The latest study published in the journal Photonics (2024) provides significant data supporting the use of photobiomodulation (PBMT) as an effective method in treating depressive symptoms and related biochemical changes.

Mechanism of action of photobiomodulation

Photobiomodulation uses light in the red and near-infrared spectrum to stimulate cellular functions, primarily mitochondrial activity, which is crucial for cellular energy production. The therapy helps reduce oxidative stress, decrease inflammation, and improve cellular function, which is essential for managing depressive symptoms and related disorders.

Fascinating study results and their clinical significance:

• Reduction of depressive symptoms: PBMT led to a significant reduction in depressive symptom scores according to the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D). The study showed a reduction in these symptoms in 70% of adolescents who underwent the therapy, confirming the high effectiveness of the method.

• Improvement of biological markers:  The therapy significantly modulated biomarkers related to oxidative stress and mitochondrial function. There was an improvement in the activity of antioxidant enzymes catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), as well as lower levels of carbonylated proteins, malondialdehyde, and thiobarbituric acid. Additionally, the activity of mitochondrial complexes I, II, and IV significantly improved, highlighting the positive effect of PBMT on cellular energy and metabolism.

• Anxiety and stress:  The study also assessed anxiety symptoms using the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A). The therapy led to a significant reduction in anxiety symptoms in most participants, confirming its effectiveness not only for treating depression but also comorbid anxiety. The study also recorded significant improvement in resilience to stress factors, which led to an enhanced quality of life for adolescents.

• Improvement of sleep patterns: PBMT led to a significant improvement in sleep quality in 65% of participants, which is a crucial factor for overall regeneration and mental well-being of adolescents.

Practical application and availability of photobiomodulation

Special panels from redlight.doctor offer a unique combination of UVB, UVA, red, and near-infrared wavelengths, maximizing therapeutic effects. These devices allow for simple and convenient home application of PBMT, making them an ideal solution for adolescents and their families.

For parents seeking a safe, effective, and scientifically proven treatment, photobiomodulation represents a significant step forward. This method not only significantly improves symptoms of depression and anxiety but also enhances the biological functions of adolescents, having a positive long-term impact on their overall health and quality of life.

Detailed information about the study results can be found in the original article here: Photonics, 2024 (https://www.mdpi.com/2304-6732/11/2/220).