Shedding Light on a Hidden Depression Trigger

By Dr. Scott Olson, ND Posted August 12, 2024

Everyone knows a good night’s sleep is crucial for overall good health.

But what if I told you that the smallest sliver of light in your bedroom could be sabotaging not just your sleep but your mental health as well?

An enlightening study suggests that even a hint of nighttime light might be edging you towards depression, especially if you’re a senior.

Let me explain…

I’ve warned about the dangers of nighttime light exposure before. Artificial light at night is linked to a laundry list of health issues.

You see, too much light while you’re sleeping disrupts your body’s hormone production and messes with your circadian rhythms. This triggers a domino effect that can lead to various health complaints.

Now, a team of researchers has uncovered yet another reason to embrace the darkness when you hit the hay. Their findings, published in the American Journal of Epidemiology, are… well… illuminating.

The scientists recruited 863 seniors and put light sensors in their bedrooms to measure nighttime light levels as they slept. At the same time, they tracked the participants’ mental health.

Here’s what they discovered…

People exposed to more than 5 lux of light as they tried to sleep were significantly more likely to develop symptoms of depression compared to those who slept in total darkness.

Now, you’re probably wondering how much light this is.

The answer might surprise you. Five lux is less than the glow of a candle from about a foot away. So, we’re talking about a seriously small amount of light, like a sliver peeking through your curtains or the glow from a digital alarm clock.

Why does such a tiny bit of light have such a big impact on mood? The researchers suspect it’s all about sleep quality.

Even low light levels can disrupt your body’s melatonin production, the hormone that regulates your sleep-wake cycle. This disruption can lead to poor sleep, which we know is a major risk factor for depression.

So, what can you do to create a healthier sleep environment?

• Invest in blackout curtains or an eye mask to block out external light.
• Power down screens at least an hour before bed. The blue light from phones and tablets can be particularly disruptive.
• Cover any indicator lights on electronics that must be in the bedroom.
• If you need a nightlight, opt for a red one, which is less likely to interfere with your circadian rhythm.

Remember, while managing nighttime light exposure is promising for supporting mental health, it’s no silver bullet cure. If you’re struggling with depression, a combination of strategies is often the best bet for kicking the blues.

That said, creating a pitch-black sleep sanctuary could be a simple yet powerful step towards better sleep and brighter days ahead.

So tonight, when you’re winding down for bed, take a moment to survey your bedroom. Is it truly dark? If not, it might be time to draw the curtains on depression—literally.

Be sure to check back later this week when I flip the script and reveal how you can harness the power of light to FIGHT depression.

P.S. For MORE tips on how to ditch depression without drugs, CLICK HERE.

Source:

Kenji Obayashi, Keigo Saeki, Norio Kurumatani, Bedroom Light Exposure at Night and the Incidence of Depressive Symptoms: A Longitudinal Study of the HEIJO-KYO Cohort, American Journal of Epidemiology, Volume 187, Issue 3, 3.18, Pages 427–434

Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND

Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.

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