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Natural light - The relation between darkness and depression is well-known. According to Scientific American, a 2007 Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences study highlighted the consequence of being deprived of natural light.

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Effects - Light is important for mood stability. The 2007 study confirms the prevalence of Seasonal Affective Disorder in places where there is limited natural light.

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Depression - Neuroscientists at the University of Pennsylvania kept rats in the darkness for six weeks. The animals developed depressive behavior and damage to the brain region that is associated with depression.

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Neurotransmitters - During that experiment, scientists observed that the rats' neurotransmitters associated with emotion, pleasure, and cognition were dying.

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Bad mood - According to the Scientific American, researcher Gary Aston-Jones said that light deprivation leads to a rupture of the body's internal clock, which could eventually lead to changes in the brain regions that control mood.

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Natural light - Several studies and experiments have demonstrated that the body's natural rhythm and circadian cycle depend on natural light.

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Constant darkness - When we see light, our body automatically assumes it's time to wake up. In darkness, our brain releases melatonin, which allows us to sleep. It becomes a problem when the body thinks that it is always time to switch to sleep mode.

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Consequences - The side effects of constant darkness include insomnia, anxiety, bad mood, and a state of lethargy.

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Very little light - Many people in Nordic countries suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder and depression.

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Working out - One of the best ways to fight depression is to work out in the morning. It improves mood and energy levels.

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Sunlight - According to website NetDoctor, Sue Pavlovich from the Seasonal Affective Disorder Association states that one should spend at least one hour a day exposed to sunlight. A good way to fit this into your busy life is to spend lunch hour outside.

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Signs that shouldn't be ignored - Some of the symptoms of depression you should look out for are: a feeling of helplessness, lost of interest in everyday activities, a change in appetite or weight loss, irritability, lack of energy, and concentration problems.

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Taking your own life -

If you feel like the only way to get rid of the feelings of despair and loneliness is to end your life, it is extremely important that you seek help.

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Seasonal Affective Disorder - Some people suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder due to a limited exposure to sunlight in the winter. According to the Help Guide, 1 to 2% of the world's population suffers from this disorder.

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How to fight it - In some Nordic countries, artificial lights are used as treatment for people suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder.

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Important tool - It is common to find these devices in Nordic homes. They provide heat, light, and a taste of the spring/summer climate.

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Winter depression - Seasonal depression affects people mainly when the days are shorter and sunlight is limited.

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Stuck at home - People tend to spend more time at home, and this isolation can also lead to sadness.

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Alternatives - If you live in a place with this type of climate, there are somethings you can do to improve your mood and general well-being.

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Interaction - Try to interact with people as much as you can, especially when you feel alone. Reach out to your friends and make fun plans.

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Friendly hand - Sometimes, all you need is a good listener who cares about you.

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Healthy diet - Follow a balanced diet. Swap the foods that may be affecting your mood such as those containing caffeine and alcohol for healthy, nutritious options.

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Moving around - Work out! When you're feeling blue it's hard to get up and exercise, but try going for a walk or gentle workout. Exercise is a natural antidepressant.

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Keeping busy - Find a hobby that you truly enjoy, volunteer, or get a pet! These things will keep you busy and help you to feel better.

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Professional help - Do not feel ashamed of seeking help. If you feel like there is no other way out, get yourself some professional help.

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