The winter months can have an insidious effect on our bodies and minds by disrupting our circadian rhythms, leading to poor sleep quality and mental health issues. According to the National Sleep Foundation, nearly 45% of people report feeling more tired during the winter due to shorter days and longer nights. This is linked to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a condition that affects almost 10% of Americans each year, causing symptoms such as poor sleep, fatigue, and mood changes. Research shows that exposure to natural light, particularly in the morning, can improve sleep quality significantly, with studies indicating that up to 60% of people dealing with circadian rhythm disorders experience improved sleep after using light therapy. Poor sleep is strongly linked to mental health struggles like anxiety and depression, with a Harvard Medical School report revealing that people who report poor sleep in winter are two to three times more likely to experience heightened levels of anxiety and stress.
https://stltoday.com/news/nation-world/weather/polar-vortex-severe-winter-weather-icy-roads-dangerous-conditions/article_8e2e6f0a-2cb9-50ab-a474-25ab1732677d.htmlThe University of Utah has appointed Dr. Robert Carter as its new leader, who will oversee several projects including the completion of a new medical building, the launch of a hospital and health center in West Valley City, and the opening of new facilities for the Huntsman Cancer Institute and Huntsman Mental Health Institute. As a neurosurgeon and researcher with experience at Harvard Medical School and the University of California, San Diego, Carter brings a wealth of knowledge to his new role. He has also served as co-director of brain tumor programs at both institutions and helped launch the integration of academic and clinical teams at Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital earlier this year.
https://www.deseret.com/utah/2024/12/17/carter-university-utah-health-vice-president-medicine-harvard-byu/