Photo Courtesy of Tiana Arroyo
In more recent years, mental health has become the most serious social problem worldwide according to The National Library of Medicine.
“Past studies have proposed that some links exist between sunlight and mental health; however, relevant studies examining low-dose sunlight exposure populations are lacking,” The National Library of Medicine said.
Without enough sunlight, humans may not survive healthily. The amount of sunlight needed is different for everyone. It depends on your skin tone, age, health history, diet, and where you live.
“In general, scientists think 5 to 15 minutes — up to 30 if you’re dark-skinned — is about right to get the most out of it without causing any health problems. You can stay out longer and get the same effect if you use sunscreen,” WebMD said.
The sun’s UV rays can help your body make vitamin D, which is important for your bones, blood cells, and immune system. Vitamin D also helps you take in and use certain minerals, like calcium and phosphorus. Along with sterilization(the process of making something free from bacteria or other living microorganisms.) and energy supply, sunlight provides protection against a wide range of diseases. These diseases don’t just have to be physical but can be mental as well.
“Decreased sun exposure has been associated with a drop in your serotonin levels, which can lead to major depression with seasonal patterns. The light-induced effects of serotonin are triggered by sunlight that goes in through the eye. Sunlight cues special areas in the retina, which triggers the release of serotonin. So, you’re more likely to experience this type of depression in the wintertime, when the days are shorter,” Healthline said.
One of the main treatments for those who suffer from seasonal depression is light therapy, also known as phototherapy. You can get a light therapy box for a home in which the light from the box will mimic natural sunlight and then stimulate the brain to produce serotonin and reduce excess melatonin.
“Exposure to sunlight is thought to increase the brain’s release of a hormone called serotonin. Serotonin is associated with boosting mood and helping a person feel calm and focused. At night, darker lighting triggers the brain to make another hormone called melatonin. This hormone is responsible for helping you sleep. Without enough sun exposure, your serotonin levels can dip. Low levels of serotonin are associated with a higher risk of major depression with seasonal patterns (formerly known as seasonal affective disorder or SAD). This is a form of depression triggered by the changing seasons,” Healthline said.
Boosting your mood isn’t the only reason to get high amounts of sunlight. Several health benefits play along with catching average amounts of rays. These benefits include building strong bones, cancer prevention, and healing skin conditions. There are countless ways to get natural sunlight. It’s as easy as stepping outside or even going out and riding your bike. Any amount of sunlight you can get will benefit you in some sort of way.
“From treating skin conditions to improving mood, sunlight has many benefits. If you live in higher latitudes with little sunlight, a light box may provide some of its mood-boosting benefits,” Healthline said.
