Researchers from the University of Southampton have discovered that light plays a crucial role in mood regulation and the development of mental disorders, as reported by Tengri Life citing The Conversation.
The study's findings indicate that disruptions in circadian rhythms, which can be caused by both insufficient daylight and bright light at night, increase the risk of depression, bipolar disorder, and other mental illnesses.
Analysis of brain activity data revealed that daylight affects areas of the brain responsible for mood and alertness. Sunlight influences serotonin levels—a neurotransmitter that regulates mood.
In contrast, exposure to bright light at night disrupts circadian rhythms, exacerbating symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other disorders, as light at night destabilizes biological clocks, scientists claim.
To minimize risks, researchers recommend avoiding bright light at night, ensuring adequate sunlight exposure during the day, and maintaining a stable sleep-wake schedule.