Eyestrain and headaches from light therapy? Back off, don’t quit.

Common side effects like eyestrain, headache, and jitteriness are real, but you can usually fix them without stopping treatment.

Most of these happen because you’re overdoing it — too close, too long, or too bright.
Light therapy boxes are bright for a reason (10,000 lux), but you don’t need to stare into the sun. Sit 16–24 inches away, and place it off to the side so the light hits your eyes indirectly.

If you still get headaches or eye strain, cut your session time in half. Start with 10–15 minutes and work up over a week.
Agitation or “feeling wired” usually means you’re using it too late in the day. Move it to early morning, right after waking. If that doesn’t help, try a smaller device or