Alaska offers many incredible and unique features that draw people to the state. Alongside long, bright summers comes the long dark winters that people have to adjust to. Not everyone can handle the extra darkness of this part of the world. Below, the local family doctors at Mayer Clinic in Fairbanks, AK, share some information on whether depression may be linked to living in the state.

Are Alaskan Winters Linked to Your Depression?

Depression & Sunlight

When humans are exposed to sunlight, their bodies create vitamin D. Lack of this important vitamin has been linked to an increased risk of depression. As the sun is rarely seen in the winter in Alaska, many people with seasonal affective disorder, or seasonal depression, may benefit from trying light therapy.  Studies have shown that 30-60 minutes of light therapy can greatly limit symptoms of SAD. Talk with your family doctor to learn if it’s an option to add light therapy to your treatment plan.

Depression & Sleep

Many people spending their winter in Alaska head to their family doctors to get help for insomnia or sleeping too much. Spending more than 8 hours a day asleep could be a symptom of a type of depression. A study published in “Human Psychopharmacology: Clinical and Experimental Journal” found that changing daily light amounts can interrupt your circadian rhythm, making you feel low and depressed. Sticking to a sleep schedule can help you fight this lack of a natural cycle, improving your natural melanin production and making it easier to sleep as normal.

 If you think you’re experiencing depression because of the weather, it’s a good idea to visit your family doctor to discuss your symptoms. Talk to the compassionate team at Mayer Clinic. Call (907) 457-5050 or visit the website for information on their office.