Light Therapy

Harper Wellness provides students, faculty, and staff the opportunity to rent a light therapy lamp year-round on a first-come, first-served basis for free. It is recommended to use a light therapy lamp if you're experiencing a lack of sunlight or Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

Rent a Light Therapy Lamp from Harper Wellness

Stop by the Foglia Foundation Health and Recreation Center (building M) front desk to rent your light therapy lamp on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations are not accepted. Harper Wellness’ light therapy lamps were selected according to Mayo Clinic's recommended specifications. Click here for more information from the Mayo Clinic.

There is a $50 replacement fee for any light therapy lamps that are not returned or are returned damaged.

Pickup Location

Light therapy lamps should be picked up from the Folgia Foundation Health and Recreation Center (building M) front desk. Click here for building hours of operation.

For Best Results

It is best to consistently use a light therapy lamp shortly after waking up and for 20-30 minutes at a time while sitting about 6-24 inches from the light box.
Users can often notice the benefits of using a light lamp after a few days and after a few weeks users often report that their symptoms have improved.
When in use, do not look directly into the lamp’s light, however, you should keep your eyes open. For the light box to be most effective, it’s important for the light to be able to hit the user’s eyes as skin exposure to the light will not create the same effect.
When using the light box, users can perform their normal activities such as typing at a computer, having a conversation, talking on the phone, etc.
When using the light therapy lamps, it is recommended that the user keeps to a regular sleep schedule by waking up and going to sleep at the same times.

Concerns or Risks

The light therapy boxes should not be used to replace any already existing therapy or counseling as they should be used to help supplement other therapy or strategies that might already be in place.
If you’re experiencing Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and bipolar disorder, please speak to your healthcare provider before using a light therapy lamp as it may increase manic symptoms.
If you have had glaucoma, cataracts or eye damage from diabetes at any time, please speak to your healthcare provider before using a light therapy lamp as it may increase eye problems.
Any person currently taking medication that can cause photosensitivity (common examples include tetracycline, erythromycin) should only use the light box with extreme caution or consult with a healthcare provider prior to use.
If you have concerns about usage, it's always best to check-in with your healthcare provider.

Please note:

By renting a light therapy lamp, users agree to return it on time, with all of its parts, and in the condition in which it was received. If the light box is not returned, additional charges may be issued to the user.

Additional Questions

For any additional questions, please email wellness@harpercollege.edu.