Introduction: A New Frontier in Mental Wellness
In recent years, the mental health field has witnessed an increasing interest in alternative, non-pharmacological treatments that support emotional and cognitive health. One of the most promising tools is photobiomodulation (PBM), a non-invasive therapy using red and near-infrared (NIR) light to stimulate cellular function. Originally studied for physical injuries and pain relief, PBM is now gaining attention for its potential to enhance mood, reduce anxiety, regulate sleep, and promote emotional resilience.
At Jazz Psychiatry, we integrate the latest science in light-based therapies into our holistic psychiatric care model, helping patients tap into their body’s natural healing potential. This blog explores how PBM works and why it may be a valuable addition to your mental wellness toolkit.
What is Photobiomodulation (PBM)?
Photobiomodulation, previously known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT), involves exposing body tissues to red (typically 620–660 nm) or near-infrared light (810–850 nm). Delivered through LED panels, laser devices, helmets, or intranasal applicators, these wavelengths penetrate the skin and skull to interact with cellular components, particularly mitochondria.
The primary mechanism involves the stimulation of cytochrome c oxidase, a key enzyme in the mitochondrial respiratory chain. This process boosts adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production, enhancing cellular energy, reducing oxidative stress, and improving tissue repair.
In the brain, these effects can support neuroplasticity, emotional regulation, and cognitive clarity—cornerstones of mental health.
Core Benefits of PBM for Mental Health
Author
Dr. Jaswinderjit Singh
Dr. Jaswinderjit Singh, MD, who treats patients in and around Valley Stream, New York, at Jazz Psychiatry, takes a holistic approach to psychiatry, believing that successfully treating a person’s disorders involves more than dealing with their mental health.
