Red light therapy is an emerging, science-backed wellness intervention that is gaining recognition in both medical and mental health settings. Addiction and chronic stress do not just impact behavior. They alter sleep cycles, increase inflammation, disrupt nervous system regulation, and strain the body at a cellular level.
Substance use disorder is frequently associated with prolonged stress exposure, trauma, and systemic inflammation. Research continues to explore how chronic stress and addiction affect mitochondrial function, immune response, and neural regulation. When the body remains in a prolonged stress state, healing becomes more difficult.
Red light therapy works at the cellular level by supporting mitochondrial energy production, circulation, and inflammatory balance. Instead of targeting only symptoms, this technology supports the body’s natural repair processes from the inside out. In a structured recovery setting, red light therapy is not a replacement for therapy or medical care. It is a complementary tool designed to help stabilize the nervous system, improve sleep, reduce physical discomfort, and support whole-person healing.
Recovery is not just psychological. It is physiological.
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The goal is not stimulation or sedation. The goal is cellular support.
Red light therapy has been studied for its potential role in:
Reducing inflammation
Supporting tissue repair
Improving circulation
Decreasing muscle soreness
Supporting mood regulation
Enhancing sleep quality
In a recovery setting, this can complement traditional therapy by supporting the body’s natural healing process.
Each new day is a fresh opportunity to make a life-altering change and improve your quality of life. We want to help you identify the underlying challenges to recovery and better understand yourself so you can finally live the life you were always meant to live. Call today to get started and learn more about BHC.
Addiction and chronic stress place strain on the nervous system and body. In early recovery, individuals may experience:
Fatigue
Sleep disruption
Muscle tension
Inflammation
Mood instability
Red light therapy may support stabilization by encouraging:
Improved cellular energy production
Reduced inflammatory response
Muscle relaxation
Nervous system regulation
While it is not a replacement for medical or psychological treatment, it can be a supportive addition to a comprehensive recovery plan.
Emerging research suggests light-based therapies may influence mood regulation pathways. Some individuals report improvements in seasonal mood shifts, general depressive symptoms, sleep quality, and emotional balance. Red light therapy does not replace antidepressants or therapy, but it may enhance overall wellness when integrated into a structured treatment program.
Red light therapy sessions are:
Painless
Non-invasive
Relaxing
Typically 10–20 minutes in duration
You may feel gentle warmth, but there is no discomfort. Protective eyewear may be used depending on the device. Most individuals incorporate sessions multiple times per week as part of a broader treatment plan.
In a recovery environment, red light therapy can:
Support physical detoxification recovery
Reduce muscle soreness from stress or withdrawal
Improve sleep patterns
Enhance overall wellness
Promote relaxation before or after therapy sessions
Healing is not just psychological. It is physical, neurological, and emotional.
Individuals who may find it helpful include those experiencing:
Chronic stress
Fatigue during early recovery
Sleep difficulties
Mild inflammatory discomfort
Muscle tension
Every treatment plan is individualized. Red light therapy is used as a complement, not a substitute, for clinical care.
At Brooks Healing Center, we believe recovery requires more than symptom management. Our approach integrates:
Structured programming
Experiential and holistic practices
Red light therapy is one of several tools used to support physical restoration while clients engage in the deeper emotional and behavioral work of recovery.
If you or someone you love is seeking addiction treatment that addresses both body and mind, Brooks Healing Center offers structured care designed for lasting recovery.
Call today to learn more about our programs and holistic support options.
Red light therapy is generally considered safe when used appropriately. It uses low-level red and near-infrared wavelengths that do not contain ultraviolet light, meaning it does not damage the skin like tanning beds. Most side effects are mild and uncommon, such as temporary redness or warmth. However, individuals with certain medical conditions, those taking light-sensitizing medications, or anyone with active cancerous lesions should consult a healthcare provider before beginning red light therapy.
How often you should do red light therapy depends on the goal and device being used. Many clinical protocols recommend sessions several times per week, often 3 to 5 times weekly during the initial phase. In structured treatment settings, frequency is individualized based on therapeutic goals such as inflammation support, sleep improvement, or stress regulation.
Red light therapy is not inherently bad for your eyes, but protective eyewear is often recommended, especially with higher-intensity devices. While red and near-infrared light are not ultraviolet, prolonged direct exposure at high intensities may cause temporary discomfort. Clinical settings typically follow safety protocols to protect vision during treatment.
In many cases, yes, you can do red light therapy everyday, particularly at lower doses. However, more is not always better. The body responds to light therapy in a dose-dependent way, meaning there is an optimal range. Overuse may reduce effectiveness. A structured schedule guided by professionals typically produces the best results.
There is limited research on red light therapy during pregnancy. While red light does not contain UV radiation and is generally considered low risk, pregnant individuals should always consult their healthcare provider before starting any new therapy, including red light therapy.
No, red light therapy does not tan you. Tanning occurs due to ultraviolet radiation stimulating melanin production. Red light therapy uses visible red and near-infrared wavelengths that do not cause tanning or skin darkening.
Red light therapy works best when applied directly to exposed skin. Clothing can block or significantly reduce the amount of light reaching the tissues. For optimal effectiveness, the treatment area is typically uncovered during sessions.
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