Is Worsening Anxiety Symptoms Linked To Low Sunlight Exposure? Psychiatrist Weighs In

We are all aware about the importance of sunlight for our overall health. Lack of exposure to sunlight causes different health issues such as vitamin D deficiency, low mood, and sleep problems. But did you know that not getting enough sunlight is also linked to anxiety? While it may not cause the disorder, it can worsen its pre-existing symptoms. To understand why this happens, we interacted with a top psychiatrist. 

Let us take a look at what Dr Sharadhi C, Consultant Psychiatry, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore, has to say about it.

Can Low Sunlight Exposure Worsen Anxiety Symptoms?

Let us straightaway get to the point: is there a link between low sunlight exposure and anxiety? Answering this, Dr Sharadhi says, “Yes, low sunlight exposure may be linked with worsening anxiety symptoms. This is because natural light helps regulate the body’s internal clock, sleep-wake cycle, production of hormones and brain chemicals involved in mood. Spending very little time outdoors can disturb these systems, especially when combined with poor sleep and long periods indoors.”

The expert further explains, “Sunlight also helps the body make vitamin D. Low vitamin D levels have been associated with anxiety and other mood problems; however, this does not prove that a lack of sunlight directly causes anxiety. This is because factors such as physical inactivity, social isolation, stress, poor sleep and existing mental health conditions can also contribute to both reduced outdoor time and worsening anxiety symptoms.”

What is The Link Between Low Sunlight Exposure and Anxiety?

A 2023 study, published in the Risk Management and Healthcare Policy journal, attempted to understand how a lack of sunlight affects psychological well-being. The researchers examined data from 787 nurses (they were chosen specifically because they work long hours in windowless environments under artificial light) to see if their limited daily sunlight exposure was linked to their mental health scores. 

The study used a well-established psychological evaluation tool called the Kessler 10 scale to quantify the participants' levels of psychological distress, anxiety, and depression. The findings showed that these nurses generally exhibited poorer mental health, as compared to the general population. 

The research discovered that there is a direct negative association between the amount of sunlight the nurses received and their levels of psychological distress. It added that the less sunlight the nurses were exposed to outside of work, the worse their mental health and anxiety symptoms became. 

The study stated that long-term deprivation of natural light can lead to worsening anxiety, sleep irregularities, and depressive symptoms. The researchers also noted that poor sleep regularity and the presence of chronic diseases further affected the mental health of the nurses. The research concluded that getting appropriate amounts of natural sunlight is important for maintaining good mental health and preventing anxiety. 

What Are The Symptoms of Anxiety?

According to the Cleveland Clinic, the symptoms of anxiety differ based on two main factors:

Psychological symptoms:

• Feeling panic, fear, dread and uneasiness.
• Feeling on edge or irritable.
• Uncontrollable, obsessive thoughts.
• Difficulty concentrating.

Physical symptoms:

• Restlessness.
• Heart palpitations.
• Shortness of breath.
• Muscle tension.
• Cold or sweaty hands.
• Dry mouth.
• Nausea.
• Numbness or tingling in your hands or feet.
• Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep (insomnia).

Tips To Deal With Worsening Anxiety 

As mentioned earlier, there are various factors that can contribute to anxiety. Therefore, the approach to manage it should take into account each one of them. On this note, Dr Sharadhi shares some tips to deal with worsening anxiety: 

• Getting regular safe daylight exposure, particularly earlier in the day.
• Physical activity.
• Consistent sleep schedule.
• Balanced meals.
• Time away from excessive screen use. It may support better mood and sleep. 

“Sunlight should not be treated as a cure for anxiety. People with persistent or worsening anxiety should speak with a mental health professional or doctor for appropriate assessment and treatment,” concludes Dr Sharadhi.

ALSO READ- Workplace Anxiety Spike? Expert Explains What Your 3 PM Coffee May Be Doing to Your Brain

Conclusion

While a lack of sunlight may not directly cause anxiety, it can significantly worsen existing symptoms. This is caused by disruption of your body's internal clock and lowering essential vitamin D levels. Managing this hidden link needs a well-rounded approach that includes safe daily sun exposure, a consistent sleep schedule, and regular physical activity. However, since sunlight is not a standalone cure, it is important to consult a mental health professional if your anxiety persists or feels unmanageable.