CompletedNot ApplicableInterventional

Assessing the safety, tolerability, and feasibility of a stroboscopic intervention protocol in people with depression

This research is investigating a new way to help people with depression using special flashing lights called stroboscopic stimulation. We know depression affects many people in the UK. While current treatments like medication and talking therapies work for some, they can have side effects or be hard to access. This study aims to discover if this light treatment, which can create vivid visual experiences even with closed eyes, is safe and can be easily used without medication. Researchers observed positive mood changes in a public art project using similar lights, and now they're carefully testing it for people with depression. If successful, it could pave the way for a simple and widely available new treatment.

At a glance

Status

Completed

Phase

Not Applicable

Sponsor

University of Sussex

Enrolment target

Start

09 May 2025

Estimated completion

30 Sep 2025

Depression

What is this study about?

Depression is a common condition that affects many people in the UK. While there are treatments like antidepressant medicines and talking therapies, these don't work for everyone, can have side effects, or can be difficult to access due to long waiting lists. Because of this, scientists are always looking for new and different ways to help people feel better.

This study is exploring a new idea: using special flashing lights, called stroboscopic stimulation, to help with depression. You might have seen flashing lights at concerts or events. Surprisingly, for many people, experiencing these lights with their eyes closed can create colourful patterns and even full scenes in their mind's eye, often with strong feelings. Researchers observed that many people who experienced a similar light display in a public art project felt happier and reported their anxiety and depression symptoms had lessened. This pilot study aims to investigate those observations in a controlled way.

The main goal of this early study is to check if this light treatment is safe, well-tolerated (meaning people don't find it too uncomfortable), and practical to use for people with depression. It's hoped that if it works, it could become a simple, non-drug treatment option that is widely available. The study will carefully compare results from people receiving the active light treatment with those receiving a slightly different light pattern, while monitoring their mood and well-being.

Key takeaways

This study explores a new light treatment for depression.
It aims to be a non-drug, easy-to-use alternative.
You'd attend four weekly 30-minute sessions using special flashing lights.
The study checks safety, comfort, and potential mood changes.
Participants must be 18+ and currently experiencing depression.
You'll help advance understanding of new depression treatments.

Who may be eligible?

To be part of this study, you need to be an adult, aged 18 or older, and currently experiencing depression, whether it's mild or more severe. You also need to be willing and able to follow the study's plan.

There are certain reasons why you wouldn't be able to join. For example, if you have very mild depression that doesn't meet a certain level, or if you are pregnant. Also, you cannot take part if you have certain health conditions like a history of psychosis, bipolar disorder, Parkinson's disease, or some eye conditions. If you've had a serious head injury or regularly use other types of light therapy, you also wouldn't be suitable.

The researchers will ask you some questions to make sure the study is a safe fit for you. This includes checking for any history of seizures or severe migraines, as flashing lights can sometimes trigger these in a very small number of people. Your safety is very important.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Are you currently experiencing depression (mild to severe)?
Do you *not* have a history of seizures, frequent migraines, or light sensitivity?
Are you *not* currently pregnant?
Do you *not* have conditions like psychosis, bipolar disorder, or certain eye problems?
Are you *not* regularly using other forms of light therapy (like SAD lamps)?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you join the study, you'll be asked to attend four sessions, once a week, for 30 minutes each. During these sessions, you'll experience the special flashing lights using a device called roXiva RX1. You'll be put into one of two groups by chance: one group will receive the main light treatment, and the other will receive a slightly different light pattern. Both groups will have the same amount of light exposure.

Before your first session, you'll complete some questionnaires about your mood and how you expect the treatment to feel. After each light session, you'll fill out more questionnaires about how you felt, what you saw, and your mood. You'll also receive short online questionnaires to complete a few days after each session. From the second session onwards, you'll be asked about any side effects you might have experienced over the past week.

Potential risks and benefits

While there might not be a direct personal benefit from taking part, by joining, you'll be helping scientists learn more about new ways to treat depression, which could help many people in the future. As with any study, there are some potential risks. The questionnaires include sensitive questions about mood and suicidal thoughts, and if you feel these might upset you, it's best not to take part. Support resources will be provided, and a psychologist is available if concerns arise. Flashing lights can, in very rare cases, trigger seizures, anxiety, discomfort, or migraines in people who are sensitive to light. The study has careful screening to exclude anyone with a history of light sensitivity, frequent migraines, or seizure risks to maintain your safety. You are free to stop participating at any time.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

Sussex Centre for Consciousness Science
City only
Brighton, United Kingdom

Common questions

What exactly is 'stroboscopic stimulation'?

It's a special type of flashing light. When you experience it with your eyes closed, it can create visual effects like colours and patterns in your mind.

Will I be given any medicine during this study?

No, this study is specifically looking at a non-drug treatment. You won't be given any medication as part of this research.

How long will the study last for me?

You will attend four sessions, once a week, each lasting 30 minutes. So, your participation will involve about a month of weekly sessions, plus some follow-up questionnaires.

Who is paying for this research?

The study is being funded by the Medical Research Council (MRC), which is a government body that supports health research in the UK.

What if I feel uncomfortable during a session?

Your comfort and safety are a priority. If you feel uncomfortable at any point, you can certainly stop the session or withdraw from the study. Support resources will also be on hand.

How to find out more

David Schwartzman

d.schwartzman@sussex.ac.uk +44 (0)7709918923 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.