Photophobia and depression: what to know

Low mood can change sleep, activity, concentration and tolerance of everyday sensations. Someone who is depressed may spend more time indoors or notice discomfort more strongly, but that does not establish that depression caused the light sensitivity.

Photophobia can occur with migraine, conjunctivitis, eye-surface irritation and some medicines. A new symptom should be considered on its own, especially if it comes with eye pain, redness, headache or altered vision.

Record when brightness becomes uncomfortable, whether one or both eyes are affected, and any headache, nausea, redness or visual symptoms. Arrange a primary-care or eye assessment if the problem persists or limits work, driving or time outdoors.

Continue prescribed mental-health treatment and mention all medicines at the appointment. Use gentle indoor lighting, sunglasses outdoors and screen breaks, while avoiding constant dark-room use that can make ordinary light feel harsher.

Seek urgent care for sudden vision loss, intense eye pain, a very red eye, severe headache with vomiting, fever, stiff neck, confusion or a new rash. If low mood includes thoughts of self-harm, seek immediate crisis or emergency support and stay with a trusted person.

Ask whether your medicines, migraine pattern or eye surface could be involved, whether you need an eye examination, and how to coordinate care for photophobia and low mood.