Neuro-affective Response to Light in Depressed Adolescents and Young Adults

Participation Deadline: 07/31/2026
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Description

The goal of this neuroimaging pilot study is to understand developmental differences in the impact of therapeutic wavelength light (blue light) versus a non-therapeutic wavelength (red light) on emotional brain function in depression. The main questions this study aims to answer are:

* Does acute exposure to blue light (vs red light) stabilize emotional brain function in depressed individuals?
* Are stabilizing effects of blue light (vs red light) stronger for blue light in adolescents than young adults?

Participants will complete:

* A magnetic resonance imaging brain scan, in which we will examine the effect of blue versus red light on emotional brain function at rest and in response to rewards and losses.
* A pupillometry test of sensitivity to blue vs red light
* Clinical interviews and surveys
* Screening measures for drug and alcohol use, MRI safety, and current pregnancy [if relevant]
* Home sleep tracking with sleep diary and actigraphy for one week