Join cutting-edge research on light patterns and mental health.
In 2023, Flinders University Professor Sean Cain published ground breaking research tracking light patterns in over 85,000 people. The findings revealed that darker days and brighter night-time light were associated with an increased risk of depression and self-harm.
Now, the Flinders University is taking this research further with the ILLUMINATE Study and are investigating how light patterns interact with antidepressant medication and how we might improve treatment efficacy.
We're seeking people 18-35, who are experiencing low mood, not currently taking any medication, and are interested in starting antidepressant treatment as part of a research program.
Benefits include $2000 total compensation & a personalised report to understand your sleep and light patterns.
If you're struggling with low mood or depression and want to contribute to research that could help millions find more effective treatments, we'd love to hear from you.
What’s involved?
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Online and over the phone screening (1 hour) and in-person clinical interview at Flinders University to assess eligibility (3 hours).
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Home monitoring of your sleep, activity and light patterns using research-grade wearable tech devices.
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Stay for three nights at our Flinders University Sleep Laboratory (Bedford Park) and complete brain scans (fMRI), biological samples, and tests of cognition.
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Undergo treatment with an antidepressant medication for 8 weeks, and collect data on your sleep, activity and light patterns at home.
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Stay for three nights at our Flinders University Sleep Laboratory (Bedford Park) and complete brain scans (fMRI), biological samples, and tests of cognition.
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Using data collected during the home data collection we provide you with a report to help you understand your own sleep and light patterns.
New insights into your sleep and light patterns
Our research has shown sleep and light patterns are important for your mental health. To help you gain understanding of your own sleep and light patterns we provide you with a report of your sleep and light data. Using this information we can provide personalised sleep and light recommendations for you to improve your wellbeing.
Understand Your Light Patterns
“Am I getting enough light during the daytime?”
“Am I optimising my evening light to help my sleep?”
Get Insights On Your Sleep Patterns
“Am I giving myself enough time for adequate sleep?”
“On what days am I getting worse sleep?”