Because the biological clock is driven by light, exposure to bright light during working shifts and dark exposure when not working can help combat insomnia and symptoms of anxiety and depression.

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Bright light therapy is a treatment approach that has shown promise for managing disruptions to circadian cycles, including disruptions associated with crossing multiple time zones or rotating work shifts.

Light Therapy for Circadian Rhythm Disruptions

Spielman, R. M., Jenkins, W. J., & Lovett, M. D. (2020, April 22). Psychology (2nd ed.). OpenStax. https://openstax.org/books/psychology-2e/pages/1-introduction

OpenStax Psychology (2nd ed.) Textbook

A bright light therapy lamp is a device that emits very bright light to simulate natural daylight. It is a common tool used in light therapy to treat circadian rhythm disruptions, such as those caused by jet lag or rotating shift work, by helping to reset the body's internal clock.

Bright Light Therapy Lamp

Based on the principles of using environmental light to regulate the body's internal clock, propose a practical, two-part strategy for the individual in the case study to improve her alertness at work and her ability to sleep after her shift. Explain the reasoning for each part of your strategy.

Strategy for a Rotating Shift Worker

An international pilot frequently flies from New York to Tokyo, a route that crosses many time zones. To combat the persistent fatigue and sleep disturbances from this travel, the pilot needs to adjust their body's internal clock to the new destination's time. Which of the following strategies represents the most effective application of light and darkness to accelerate this adjustment?

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