Research Identifies Connection Between Light Pollution and Mental Health Issues, Including Depression, Mania, and Suicidal Tendencies

A recent study published in Brain Sciences highlights the detrimental impact of light pollution on mental health, revealing its association with sleep disturbances and symptoms of depression, bipolar disorder, and suicidal behaviors. Conducted by Giulia Menculini and her team at the University of Perugia, the research suggests that artificial light at night (ALAN) significantly impairs sleep quality and disrupts circadian rhythms, especially among vulnerable populations such as adolescents and the elderly. The authors advocate for better urban planning and eco-friendly lighting solutions to mitigate these mental health risks, challenging the prevailing view that mental illness is solely an individual issue rather than one influenced by systemic factors.