The theoretical basis of dark therapy is that human physiology evolved to go to sleep when it's 7dark and wake when light. Circadian rhythm is regulated primarily by light cues and artificial lighting confuses this process, disrupting the complex biology involved. Window blinds are most likely enough if the outside light is not too harsh, if it is then blackout curtains are advisable. Getting up at a regular time and then getting sunlight, or at least bright artificial light exposure, is important. However, another option is a simulated sunrise alarm clock, there are some good ones made by Phillips. Personally I just use my phone as an alarm then use light therapy as I have a seasonal aspect to my BP II which responds well to it. Unfortunately light therapy can sometimes induce mania. For me the manic aspect lasts a few days then quiets down without any significant crash as the light therapy treats the depression I develop around this time of year. I would not recommend trying lightbox therapy while in withdrawal, however the sunrise simulator would be fine and I doubt natural sunlight would present any complications either.

Some researchers hypothetize that increased rates of cancer, mental health disorders, and many other forms of chronic diseases which have increased in recent history are linked to the disruption of circadian rhythm from artificial lighting. It has been thoroughly observed that circadian rhythm plays a significant role in bipolar disorders and some theories postulate that bipolar is primarily a circadian rhythm disorder - the majority of imbalances being caused by disruptions to circadian rhythm, the illness becoming unmanageable as continued disruptions predispose recurrent episodes. It is, still, only theory, however, the research done clearly implicates that for many individuals darkness therapy can have a profound effect. I believe it is key to my own long-term stability, especially given that I intend to drastically reduce medications and perhaps fully discontinue them in the future.

Keep in mind that withdrawal from psychotropics is generally destabilizing and symptoms of withdrawal can mirror those of the illness it is meant to treat as well as symptoms of other disorders. For example, when I was in withdrawal from a benzodiazepine I would experience intense hyperattentiveness, stess, and had full conversations with people who I am convinced were really hallucinations. When in withdrawal disregard any new symptoms as being part of your diagnosis, assume they are caused by the drug, and if your pdoc thinks otherwise remind him of psychiatry's gross lack of data concerning the effects of withdrawal on treatment outcomes.

I recommend the time release melatonin while in withdrawal from psychotropics as I have found it very useful in helping correct my totally screwed up sleep cycle, courtesy of Mirtazapine and Temazepam dependence and withdrawal. If the local options are overly expensive look at ordering some online in order to have some at hand for times like these in the future. Also, the melatonin should be taken right when going to bed, and using it appropriately on a regular basis requires going to bed at a regular time as taking large doses of it inconsistently is likely to confuse your body, most likely imbalancing circadian rhythm instead of supporting it.