sed sex drive, indecisiveness, lack of concentration, and apathy, change in sleep/wake patterns, reduction in quality of sleep, body aches and pain, avoidance of social situations, decreased creativity, irritability, inability to complete tasks and sometimes suicidal thoughts. (Chamberlain 1, 2) Notice the similarity in symptoms of S.A.D. and the influences of Serotonin in the body. In addition, studies at various colleges prove positive effects of sunlight. At the center of improvement of Undergraduate Education, Cornell University, Ithaca, N.Y., students working in a class with fluorescent light closely approximating sunlight experienced a significant increase in visual acuity and a reduction in overall fatigue, comparing performance under regular lights. (R.B. 3) Florescent light has a CRI (Color Rendering Index) very close to actual sunlight. (R.B. 2) Under light not closely approximating the sun, one study found calcium absorption dropped off in the elderly indoors during winter. But those under full-spectrum lighting had an increase in calcium absorption. (R.B. 2) These studies are few of many providing documented effects of increased calcium, mood disposition, etc.Without rays of sunshine you may become unhealthy, depressed, or lack energy. Walking or playing outside regularly, glancing at the sky but not directly at the sun will decrease your risks of low melatonin and serotonin levels. It only makes sense, if the loss of sunlight is the cause of the problem, then adding sunlight should solve it. Work CitedChamberlain, Claudine. (October 14, 2000). “SAD Scientists See the Light.” Retrieved March 5, 2001 from AbcNEWS.com on the World Wide Web: http://archieve.abcnews.go.com/sections/living/InYourHead/allinyourhead_13.html*.R.B. (February 17, 1980). “Role of Light in Health.” The Los Angeles Times Retrieved February 28, 2001 from the World Wide Web: http://maxpages.comdurotest/Role_Of_Ligh...
