Batcat

We call this a pilot study because BATCAT is one of the first studies of its kind in the world. We also need to learn how to carry out this type of study in the best possible way. For this reason, participants’ experiences of taking part are just as important as measuring the effects of reducing blue light. 

Why is research on lighting important? 

Light – especially blue light – activates the brain and the rest of the body and regulates the body’s internal clocks in all cells.  

Over the last 10–20 years, we have been exposed to much more blue light from LED lighting, without much consideration of how this disrupts circadian rhythms and makes us unnaturally alert in the evening. 

There are currently no studies that examine lighting conditions over a 24‑hour period in hospital wards for children and adolescents. 

Why this study is needed 

There is a lack of studies on the effects of blue‑blocking measures for children and young people receiving treatment in CAMHS.  

Many children and adolescents in CAMHS use medication to improve sleep. If simple lighting interventions prove to be effective, they may strengthen young people’s sense of control and self‑management during an important phase of life. 

What happens in the study 

The project lasts for two or three weeks for each participant, depending on whether you are an inpatient or receiving outpatient treatment. 

During the final week, participants use one of two different methods to reduce blue light exposure in the evening: 

One group will use a circadian rhythm light app on their mobile phone. 

The other group will use the same app and, in addition, wear blue‑blocking glasses from 9:00 p.m. until lights are turned off for sleep. 

You will be randomly assigned to one of the two groups. 

The study does not affect other parts of your admission or treatment. The only exception is that if you use melatonin tablets, you must stop taking them at least two days before the study starts. 

All participants receive a gift card worth NOK 200 for each week they take part in the project. 

What do we test? 

We will examine: 

Light exposure: How bright it is where you are, both in hospital and at home. You will receive a light sensor that you wear on your clothes during the day and place next to your bed at night. 

Sleep: Whether the method improves your sleep. You will complete a sleep diary on your phone and wear an activity monitor on your wrist. 

Well‑being: Whether you feel better. Both you and your parent(s) or guardian(s) will complete questionnaires before and after the week using the different methods. 

Optional additional tests 

For those who wish to take part in more extensive testing, we will also examine: 

• Whether the method increases production of the sleep hormone melatonin (measured in urine samples). 
• Whether the methods reduce stress and strengthen biological rhythms in the body. This is measured using an additional monitor worn for 24 hours on three occasions during the study period. 
• After the two weeks are completed, some participants will be interviewed about their experience of taking part in the study. 

Who can take part? 

• Children and adolescents admitted to a CAMHS inpatient unit or receiving outpatient treatment 
• Those with insomnia or delayed sleep phase disorder 
• Aged 12–18 years