Explaining bright light therapy for winter depression (CASC)

Station instructions (candidate)

You have 7 minutes. Explain that bright light therapy is an evidence-based treatment for winter-pattern major depression, give a concrete home protocol (about 10,000 lux, ~30 minutes after waking, UV-filtered box, eyes open toward the light), firmly discourage late-evening use, compare fairly with an SSRI using Can-SAD-level honesty, describe common side effects, and teach when to stop and call if mood becomes elevated. Do not guarantee cure. Do not minimise suicide safety planning if ideation has been present.[1][2][3][4][5]

Marking domains

Empathy and agenda setting; accurate plain-language rationale for seasonal depression; clear lux/time protocol; circadian timing explanation (morning not night); balanced SSRI comparison; AE and hypomania safety net; written plan and follow-up; partner involvement without collusion.[1][2][3]

Model communication map

1. Open: thank them; check what they already know; name shared goals (energy, mood, work function this winter).[2]
2. Why light: her pattern matches winter seasonal depression; trials and meta-analyses support bright light as effective treatment for this presentation.[1][4]
3. How to use it: sit near a proper light box about 10,000 lux for around 30 minutes soon after getting up; you can read or eat breakfast; do not stare into the bulbs; use a UV-filtered medical-style box at the recommended distance.[2]
4. Why not at night with TV: evening bright light can push the body clock later and worsen insomnia; morning timing is the standard for winter depression.[2][5]
5. Vs antidepressants: a major trial found light and fluoxetine similarly effective for winter SAD; light may start helping a bit sooner for some people; medicines remain excellent options if she prefers, cannot do light daily, or only partly improves.[3]
6. Side effects: headache, eye strain, feeling wired or irritable can happen; usually manageable by shortening sessions. If she becomes unusually high, needs less sleep, or is racing — stop the light and contact us the same day.[2]
7. Safety net: crisis contacts if hopelessness worsens; review in 1–2 weeks; plan for continuing through winter if she responds.[2][4]
8. Close: written instructions, questions, partner role in morning routine support.[2]

Common fails

• Agreeing to night-time 10,000 lux "for convenience."[5]
• Guaranteeing permanent cure or zero side effects.[2]
• Dismissing SSRI options as always inferior.[3]
• Ignoring elevated-mood stop rules.[2]
• Treating light as sufficient alone for active high-risk suicidality without a broader plan.[2]