How longer days can help with mental health

We’re well into Daylight Savings time which means, on top of the days lengthening as we head toward summer, we’re getting an extra hour of light at the end of the day. How are you feeling? 

People tend to adjust well to this change, experiencing a boost in their mental health. There are some good reasons for this. Let’s explore a few.

More light equals better mental health

• Less SAD. SAD stands for Seasonal Affective Disorder. It tends to occur with the time change in the fall and is thought to be connected to lower amounts of light over fall and winter. With the increase in light that spring brings, SAD symptoms disappear. That being said, there are a small number who experience SAD over the summer months, indicating that there is more to SAD than just light levels. If you feel more tired, depressed, hopeless, irritable or down in a seasonal cycle, our mental health counsellors can help.

• More socialising. People who socialise more often typically have better mental health. We’re social creatures by nature so interacting with others feels good. More daylight hours means more opportunities to meet up with friends and family for a chat or activity.

• Being outside/in nature. For many people, being outside feels like a mental health tonic. The sights and sounds, and all that fresh air energise the mind/body and stimulates the senses. As the days lengthen, there are more opportunities to get outside and enjoy the outdoors and the warmer weather.

• Vitamin D: It doesn’t take long for sunlight on the skin to create vitamin D in our bodies, ~ 10-15 minutes. It’s not possible to produce this for most of the year in our location because the sun’s rays aren’t strong enough, so if you’re not taking vitamin D supplements you may be deficient. Getting a boost of this sunshine vitamin as daylight increases and the sun gets stronger can reduce fatigue and boost energy levels.

• More exercise. With more daylight available, there’s more time to do stuff. Tend to your yard, go for a walk, play with your kids or pets outside, watch a game at the local field. Whatever you fancy, getting your body moving is good for your mental health.

So, as the days get longer, people generally start feeling more optimistic and happier. If you or someone you know continues to struggle with feelings of lowness, fatigue or depressive thoughts, there’s no need to go-it-alone or tough it out.

Speak with one of our Surrey therapists. We provide a safe and supportive therapeutic environment and a high level of specialised skill to encourage people to explore the challenges they are experiencing and to alleviate psychological and emotional distress in a safe and supportive environment.

Your mental health is important. Make an appointment to speak with a mental health counsellor at Alison Bell today. 604-372-1545