[USMCRET6391]

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRAMAR, Calif.

- Marines often find themselves in harsh conditions, like the frozen lands of Korea or the scorching heat of the Iraq desert, and that may have adverse effects on their mental state, morale and overall performance. But, something less obvious than extreme temperatures may be affecting Marines.

Lance Cpl. Kevin Allen, multichannel equipment repair technician, Marine Wing Communications Squadron 38 explained why in addition to temperature, lighting is an important part of the environment, as he has experienced effects of poor light. "I have (experienced) lack of ambient and natural light. It caused me to (feel symptoms associated with) Seasonal Affected Disorder, which is a mood disorder associated with depression episodes and related to seasonal variation of light as well as reduced lighting in the work and living areas."

According to the National Mental Health Association's Web site, "As seasons change, there is a shift in our biological internal clocks or circadian rhythm, due partly to these changes in sunlight patterns. This can cause our biological clocks to be out of step with our daily schedules. Melatonin, a sleep-related hormone secreted by the pineal gland in the brain, has been linked to SAD. This hormone, which may cause symptoms of depression, is produced at increased levels in the dark. Therefore, when the (environment) is darker the production of this hormone increases."

Navy Lt. Russell Saari, physician assistant, Branch Medical Clinic, explained, "The brain needs light stimulus to keep moods level. With dark conditions there will be a decreased level of serotonin. Artificial light will help with that."

Some symptoms of SAD include depression, loss of self-esteem, hopelessness, despair and apathy, according to the SAD Association's Web site. Physical afflictions due to SAD include craving of carbohydrates and sweet foods, usually resulting in weight gain, fatigue and an inability to carry out normal routines.

Allen stated why he did research on SAD and made recommendations to increase light in workspaces and living quarters. "I grew up in Maine where many people, including myself, suffered from it (SAD) in the winter. After doing a little research, I found that the most common cure for SAD was to increase the lighting in your primary living and working places. It effects lots of people that live in areas with long winters, like Maine, Alaska, and Washington for example. What motivated me the most was my search for a cure. It is the want for a normal non-depressive life."

If Marines are experiencing the effects of low light, there are ways they can resolve the issue. Barracks managers can be a valuable resource. They can be contacted to obtain lighting sources and to pass the information up the chain of command.

The Single Marine Program also offers quality of life issue forms that can be used to increase the comforts for Marines. The forms can be obtained from any Single Marine Program representative and then passed up to the SMP coordinator and then to the presiding authority on the issue being presented.

"That is what is great about the quality of life issues form. Marines can do the research figure out the problem and suggest solutions. Those in charge take it seriously," said Alisa Hertzler, SMP coordinator.