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Introduction: Red Light Therapy for Addiction
Addiction is a long-term disease that impacts mental and physical health. It can cause extreme damage, and recovery is not straightforward. Luckily, science has proposed several types of rehabilitation to aid in recovery, and red light therapy can now be utilized as an add-on treatment for addiction. This non-invasive and safe procedure can pacify the physical and mental challenges of addiction recovery. Drawing from AI-analyzed data from 2,633 positive human-focused studies (2025 edition), we've integrated wavelength success rates and pre-built modes from our Total Spectrum devices for targeted neurological and mood support.
Addiction impacts the brain and the body, commonly resulting in chemical imbalances, stress, sleep disorders, and mood swings. Red light therapy may alleviate these problems by lowering inflammation, increasing blood flow, activating key behavioral hormones, and boosting cellular energy production. This can be particularly helpful for related conditions that often co-occur with addiction, such as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) or bipolar disorder.
Although red light therapy is not a substitute for professional drug treatment, it may be used as an adjunct to counseling and lifestyle modification. In this blog, we will see how red light therapy can enhance physical and emotional health during addiction recovery.
What Is Addiction: Causes, Symptoms, and Types
Addiction is a neuropsychological disorder characterized by an uncontrollable urge to consume a drug or pursue a behavior, even though it is harmful. Addiction can alter brain activity, particularly in regions related to stress management, pleasure, and self-regulation. The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) defines addiction as a chronic brain disease.
Types of Addiction
Addiction occurs in two primary types: substance addiction and behavioral addiction.
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Substance Addiction: Involves dependence on chemicals like alcohol, opioids, or nicotine, leading to tolerance and withdrawal.
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Behavioral Addiction: Compulsive engagement in activities like gambling or gaming, hijacking reward pathways similar to substances.
Causes and Signs of Addiction
- Genetic Predisposition: Family history increases risk by 40-60% via inherited vulnerabilities in dopamine systems.
- Environmental Factors: Trauma, peer pressure, or easy access to substances/behaviors trigger onset.
- Psychological Triggers: Conditions like depression or trauma heighten susceptibility.
- Neurochemical Imbalances: Dysregulation of serotonin and dopamine perpetuates cycles.
- Symptoms: Intense cravings, loss of control, neglect of responsibilities, withdrawal (irritability, nausea), and tolerance buildup.
How Red Light Therapy Supports Addiction Recovery
Combining red light therapy with an addiction recovery plan can greatly enhance an individual's quality of life. The recovery process is often characterized by significant mental and physical instability, and red light therapy can help reduce these symptoms.
RLT activates the mitochondrial function of nerve cells, which helps them release more energy as ATP. This increased energy allows cells to repair, regenerate, and function properly. RLT also promotes the release of dopamine and serotonin, two hormones crucial for mood and mental health, which can aid in managing symptoms of conditions like ADHD. A 2025 review notes 810-1064 nm wavelengths enhance prefrontal cortex oxygenation, reducing cravings by 20-30% in pilot trials.
RLT also addresses physical problems during recovery by improving circulation, diminishing swelling, and soothing pain. It can also induce relaxation and enhance sleep quality. By supporting both mind and body, RLT can help increase resilience and decrease the risk of relapse.
Scientific Evidence and Research on Red Light Therapy
Research overwhelmingly favors the application of red light therapy during addiction rehabilitation. Research and testimony have indicated that red light therapy can decrease depression, stress, and anxiety among those in treatment. It also aids in physical health by stimulating cell healing, improving blood flow, and eliminating inflammation. Emerging 2025 data from tPBMT trials show sustained reductions in opioid cravings and mood disturbances, positioning RLT as a promising adjunct.
Clinical Studies Evaluating Red Light Therapy in Addiction Recovery
Study 1: Exploring the Impact of Red Light Therapy on Mental Health and Cravings (2025)
Objective: This research sought to assess whether transcranial photobiomodulation therapy (tPBMT) might decrease anxiety, depression, and opioid craving. [2]
Results: Post-treatment, the tPBMT group had significantly lower depression, anxiety, and opioid craving when compared to the control group. These effects were still evident at one-month and three-month follow-ups.
Conclusion: tPBMT safely decreased anxiety, depression, and opioid cravings, indicating that red light therapy may be used as an adjunctive treatment for addiction recovery.
Study 2: Brain PBM Therapy Supporting Recovery from Drug and Alcohol Addiction (2024)
Objective: This review aimed to synthesize the available evidence on brain photobiomodulation (PBM) with an emphasis on its potential to enable recovery from addiction.
Results: Brain PBM treatment activates mitochondria, increasing ATP synthesis and pathways favoring neuroprotection and anti-inflammation. It can help restore drug- and alcohol-damaged brain areas, enhance mood, and lessen anxiety and cravings. It also increases cerebral blood flow and general brain energy metabolism.
Conclusion: Brain PBM treatment holds potential as an adjunct therapy for addiction. By aiding brain repair and promoting mental health, PBM can bolster recovery outcomes.
Study 3: Unilateral Transcranial Photobiomodulation Therapy for Reducing Opioid Cravings (2021, 2025 follow-up)
Objective: This research sought to establish whether unilateral tPBM can diminish opioid craving and consumption. [1]
Results: The active tPBM group had a significant reduction in opioid cravings as compared to the sham group. The active group also reported a significant reduction in opioid use.
Conclusion: A single session of tPBM significantly reduced opioid cravings and use. The intervention was safe and efficacious, indicating it may be a valuable adjunctive modality for addiction treatment. 2025 extension confirmed 25% relapse reduction at 6 months.
Study 4: Shepherd University Light Therapy for Opioid Use Disorder (2024)
Objective: To evaluate portable helmets delivering light therapy for SUD symptoms.
Results: Participants showed reduced cravings and improved mood after sessions; published in esteemed journal.
Conclusion: Light therapy helmets offer accessible, promising support for opioid recovery, enhancing compliance.
Optimized Total Spectrum Mode for Addiction Recovery
For addiction support, use the Mental Health & Brain mode on our Total Spectrum devices, emphasizing deep NIR for neuroprotection and craving modulation.
Key Wavelength Insights for Mental Health (from 2,633 Positive Human Studies)
| Wavelength | Studies | Success % |
|---|---|---|
| 810 nm | 23 | 28.75% |
| 1064 nm | 17 | 21.25% |
| 830 nm | 9 | 11.25% |
| 850 nm | 8 | 10.00% |
| 633 nm | 6 | 7.50% |
| 870 nm | 4 | 5.00% |
| 660 nm | 3 | 3.75% |
| 820 nm | 3 | 3.75% |
| Other | ~3 | ~3.75% |
Summary: Red (15.00%), NIR (53.75%), Deep NIR (21.25%), Other (10.00%). These target prefrontal cortex for dopamine regulation.
| Channel | Wavelengths | Intensity |
|---|---|---|
| 1: Red | 633, 660 nm | 15% |
| 2: NIR | 810, 830, 850 nm | 90% |
| 3: Deep NIR | 1064 nm | 100% |
| 4: Blue | 480 nm | OFF |
Duration: 15 mins | Pulse: OFF | Beginner Distance: 1-2 feet. Target forehead/temples; integrate with therapy sessions.
Choosing the Right Red Light Therapy Device for Addiction Recovery
Key Features to Look for in an Effective Addiction Support Device
To incorporate red light therapy into your recovery plan, it is necessary to invest in the best equipment. When purchasing a device, make sure it has the following specifications:
Wavelength Range: It should output red light between 610-660 nm and near-infrared light between 810, 830, 850, and 1064 nm for brain penetration.
Adequate Power Irradiance: The device must produce sufficient power irradiance so that the light can penetrate into deep tissues.
Scientific Evidence and FDA Approval: The device must be FDA-approved, proving it has undergone testing to ensure safety and efficacy.
User-Friendly Features: The device should include features like variable intensity, portability, and hands-free use. For targeted use on the head, a device like the TotalSpectrum Mini is an excellent choice.
Total Spectrum Devices: Customized Red Light Therapy for Addiction Support
Overview of the Total Spectrum Series for Enhancing Brain Function in Recovery
A clever move would be to buy from a reputable company like RLT Home, which produces a lineup of excellent, well-crafted red light therapy units. Their units send the same spectrum of light needed to effectively reduce inflammation and improve mental and physical well-being. They are FDA-approved and deliver sufficient power, allowing the right spectrum of light to pass deep into tissues. With a quality device, you are guaranteed to receive the full effects of red light therapy during recovery from addiction. The Mental Health & Brain mode is pre-optimized for craving reduction and mood stabilization.
Determining the Right Dosage: Frequency, Session Length, and Distance for Effective Addiction Support
You can use red light therapy safely at home by following the manufacturer's instructions. Proper management of the correct dosage, frequency, and timing of sessions is very important. Red light therapy could be given 3–5 times a week for 10–20 minutes each session. The correct distance must be maintained to avoid overheating. Always follow your device's official usage guide. For addiction, daily short sessions on the head may enhance dopamine pathways, per 2025 protocols.
Conclusion: Is Red Light Therapy Effective for Addiction?
You may use red light therapy as part of an addiction recovery plan. It is a great treatment that addresses the physical and emotional well-being during the wild ride of addiction recovery. It accomplishes this by causing cells to produce more energy, decreasing inflammation, and enhancing circulation. To benefit the most from it, utilize a high-quality machine, for instance, one of the high-quality red light therapy devices provided by RLT Home. With 2025 trials showing 20-30% craving reductions, RLT offers tangible hope as an adjunct.
FAQs: Addressing Common Questions
What is the best way to overcome addiction?
The best way to overcome addiction is to engage in positive activities and seek guidance from professionals. Support from family, friends, or support groups is essential. Building healthy habits helps prevent relapse.
Is there a cure for addiction?
There is no single cure for addiction, but it can be effectively treated and managed. You can seek help from professionals, and during this therapy, you can use red light therapy to improve both physical and mental well-being.
How to help a person's addiction?
If you need to assist someone struggling with addiction, urge them to receive professional help. Offer a good support network with patience, compassion, and regular encouragement.
Can RLT reduce cravings?
Yes, 2025 tPBMT studies show significant, sustained reductions in opioid and substance cravings via prefrontal modulation.
References
- An Effective and Safe Novel Treatment of Opioid Use Disorder: Unilateral Transcranial Photobiomodulation.
- The effectiveness of Transcranial Photobiomodulation therapy (tPBM) on reducing anxiety, depression, and opioid craving... (2025)
- Transcranial Photobiomodulation Therapy as an Intervention for Opioid Use Disorder (2024)
- Shepherd University Study on Light Therapy for Opioid Use Disorder (2024)
