Researchers say combination of weather, post-holiday blahs to blame
OTTAWA - Feeling a little blue today? You're not alone.
Jan. 24 has been called the most depressing day of the year, thanks to a British researcher who has used a complex formula that examines how weather, post-Christmas debt and time lapsed since the holiday season affects people's moods.
January is also the time of year when the bone-chilling cold and lack of time outdoors begins to take its toll on the body, researchers say.
Simon Young, a researcher at McGill University, said even if you don't notice it, most people experience mood changes during the winter months.
While Seasonal Affective Disorder -- or SAD, as it's aptly referred to -- affects only between two and four per cent of Canadians, Young said most people will report even mild symptoms of the disorder.
"People may notice changes in their mood, weight gain, that they're socializing less and sleeping more," he said. "Very few people are not affected at all by seasonal change."
A recent study published by Young shows a correlation between exposure to light and mood, findings that prove getting outside and soaking up the winter sun is key to keeping a sunny disposition.
The study examined possible links between bright light exposure and social interaction.
Young said most people who work 30 hours a week receive an hour and a half of bright light in the summer months -- but only 26 minutes in the winter.
He said the findings give solid evidence that a healthy dose of sun each day is a sure cure for the winter blues, considering the little exposure many receive in the winter time.
"It's not light that you get indoors," said Young. "Even short-term exposure improved moods, so even a bit of exposure is beneficial.
"When you think about it, look at our ancestors: they worked on the land, they were hunter gatherers -- they were outside all time. They were probably getting more sun exposure in the winter than most people get in the summer."
Young's research increasingly points to the theory that moods can affect a person's health, both mental and physical.
However, Young said simply breaking up the day by stepping outside for a breath of fresh air -- and a shot of sweet sunshine -- may be enough to keep winter blues at bay.
====================================
This Post contains copyrighted material the use of which has not always been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. We are making such material available in our efforts to advance understanding of environmental, political, human rights, economic, democracy, scientific, social and criminal justice issues, etc. We believe this constitutes 'Fair Dealing' of any such copyrighted material as provided for in Canada's Copyright Law. The material in this Post is distributed without profit to those who have expressed a interest in receiving the included information for research and educational purposes.
The Canadian Copyright Act provides that "fair dealing" with any material protected by copyright for the purposes of private study, research, criticism, review or news reporting is not an infringement of copyright. Fair dealing with a work does not require the permission of the copyright owner or the payment of royalties.