You’ve probably heard of seasonal affective disorder (SAD)—a psychological ailment in which people suffer from the symptoms of depression in the winter months.
SAD is believed to be caused by a lack of sunlight. This reduced exposure to the sun can disrupt your body’s internal clock and cause a decrease in serotonin and melatonin levels. These changes often account for depressive symptoms such as lack of interest in daily tasks, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating.
The good news, though, is that the reverse is also true. Exposure to sunlight has been shown to boost your mental wellbeing. This spring, be sure to spend some time outdoors in nature, and turn to sunlight for mental health advantages.
The Advantages of Sunlight for Mental Health
Getting out in nature and soaking in some rays has been shown to have a significant positive effect on people’s mental health. Studies that track the uses of sunlight for mental health often focus on the effect that the sun has on people’s serotonin levels. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is responsible for regulating mood, among other things. The higher your serotonin levels, the better your mood, and the less likely you are to experience the symptoms of depression. Because sunlight has been shown to boost serotonin levels, getting out in nature is a sure way to increase mental health.
In addition, sunlight has been shown to correlate with your body’s melatonin levels. Melatonin is a hormone that your brain produces in response to darkness. It is essential for regulating your body’s circadian rhythms and ensuring good sleep. Sunlight has been shown to boost melatonin levels, which leads to better rest, and in turn, better mental health.
Ketamine for Depression
While increased exposure to sunlight is a great way to boost your mental health, some people suffer from more serious cases of depression. Treatment is essential for people who are diagnosed with clinical depression, which may consist of talk therapy or medication. Another great option for treatment is ketamine for depression. Ketamine is a safe and effective treatment for depression and other mental health disorders. It has been shown to be especially helpful for patients who have been resistant to other treatments in the past.
If you have any questions about ketamine for depression or other aspects of your mental health, please feel free to contact the experienced professionals at Vitalitas Denver. Fill out the form below and start putting your mental health first!
