A recent study conducted in Australia, involving nearly 87,000 participants, is the largest of its kind to explore the relationship between light exposure, physical activity, and mood disorders.

Published in the journal Nature Mental Health, the research highlights the significant impact of light exposure on mental health.

Mood disorders, which affect up to 30% of individuals with major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder in a seasonal pattern, are the leading cause of disability worldwide.

The study presents a strategy to understand the complex interactions between sunlight, physical activity, and mood disorders using digital tools.

Findings indicate that increased light exposure at night is associated with a 30% higher risk of depression and other psychiatric disorders, including anxiety and PTSD.

Many individuals spend about 90% of their day indoors under artificial lighting, which disrupts natural light and dark cycles, negatively impacting mental health.

Lead author Sean Cain, Ph.D., emphasizes the importance of adjusting light exposure patterns to enhance well-being, recommending bright light during the day and minimizing light at night.

Conversely, exposure to bright light during the day serves as a protective measure for mental health and reduces the risk of psychosis.

Researchers observed that individuals with depression exhibited lower physical activity levels, particularly during shorter daylight periods.

Overall, optimizing light exposure is a simple yet effective way to support mental health.

Practical recommendations from the study include utilizing natural light during the day, taking afternoon walks outside, dimming lights in the evening, and reducing screen time at night.

Cain noted that these findings remained consistent even after accounting for factors such as shift work and urban living.