Seasonal Depression May Have ‘Overlooked’ Cause
Summary
A new study suggests that artificial light at night could be a big factor in seasonal depression, not just a lack of sunlight. Researchers found that people over age 50 living in well-lit areas at night had higher rates of depression than those in darker areas across the U.S., England, Northern Ireland, and Ireland.Key Facts
- Researchers studied data from nearly 40,000 people aged 50 and above.
- The study involved participants from the U.S., England, Northern Ireland, and Ireland.
- Areas with more artificial light at night showed higher depression symptoms in residents.
- In Northern Ireland, living in brightly lit areas made people nearly 80% more likely to have depression.
- The study considered other factors like air pollution, income, and neighborhood conditions.
- Rural areas in England and Ireland seemed more affected by artificial light, while in the U.S., urban areas were more impacted.
- Scientists think artificial light at night may disrupt our internal body clock and sleep, affecting mental health.
- Researchers suggest more studies are needed to better understand how artificial light impacts mental health.
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