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Judge rules White House violated the First Amendment in banning Associated Press from President Trump's events; MA labor unions rally for public colleges, universities; ND farmers back push in Congress to rein in tariffs; NC state workers oppose health plan changes; and PA retirees fear Social Security cuts under Trump.

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Israeli government promises to cooperate on tariffs. U.S. Secretary of State says markets are not crashing, just adjusting. And budget legislation moving in Congress makes room for Trump's tax cuts.

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Rural schools fear a proposed dismantling of the Department of Education, postal carriers say USPS changes will hurt rural communities most, fiber networks to improve internet may be supplanted by Musk's satellites, and it's time to PLAY BALL!

Less sunlight, colder AZ temps can take physical, mental toll

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Tuesday, February 18, 2025   

Parts of Arizona may be known for their mild winters but the shorter days and colder temperatures can still affect a person's mood and overall health.

About 5% of adults in the U.S. experience what is sometimes referred to as the wintertime blues, according to the American Psychiatric Association.

Dr. Rhonda Randall, chief medical officer and executive vice president of UnitedHealthcare Employer and Individual, said it may also be seasonal affective disorder, with symptoms like changes in sleep and appetite, problems concentrating and a loss of interest in activities.

"The wintertime blues is very much a direct association with the number of hours of sunlight that you're exposed to," Randall explained. "We know that is important for regulating our sleep and wake cycles."

Randall pointed out people who do not get enough sunlight can also run the risk of not producing enough vitamin D3, which can affect bone density. If you are feeling down and are worried about it, she encouraged people to check the resources available through their health coverage, which may include telehealth options.

Randall added one of the easiest ways to shake off winter blues is to get outdoors, even if it's chilly, for 30 to 60 minutes a day of sunshine.

"That could be a brisk walk, or whatever it is that takes you outside, during the hours that the sun is up," Randall noted. "And even doing that maybe on your lunch break, where driving into work or driving home from work it might be dark outside. Getting exposure to some true sunlight really can be very helpful."

And if you have lost motivation or given up on your New Year's resolutions, Randall suggested now is a great time to reevaluate them and think about setting realistic goals for better physical and mental health.

"In addition to all of this, don't hesitate if you don't have already a primary care physician, or if it's been some quite time since you've had your annual wellness visit with your primary care physician, it's a great time to establish that relationship, or reestablish it," Randall stressed.

Disclosure: UnitedHealthcare contributes to our fund for reporting on Health Issues. If you would like to help support news in the public interest, click here.


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