Given its geographic place on the planet, winter in Alaska is not just cold, it is dark. Daylight in the northernmost regions is nonexistent for months at a time creating a physiological shift in mood and disposition. Sufferers of SAD often experience anxiety, malaise, and deep depression.
Is Depression high in Alaska?
For about 10 percent of the Alaska population, though, the consequences of extended darkness go beyond a spreading waistline. These people suffer from a form of depression known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), said Anchorage psychologist Caryl Boehnert.
Why is Alaska not a good place to live?
Alaska is a dangerous place to live.
With the highest rates of rape, drowning and suicide in the U.S., it’s no surprise a Harvard study ranks the state as the third most dangerous when it comes to violent and property crimes. Only Nevada and Tennessee were found to have higher per capita violent crime rates.
What are the cons of living in Alaska?
List of the Cons of Living in Alaska
- Alaska is a state which deals with numerous earthquakes each year.
- It can get extremely cold in Alaska, even during the summer months.
- There is a higher cost of living to consider before moving to the state.
- Fuel costs are much higher in Alaska.
What are the pros and cons of living in Alaska?
Explore the Pros & Cons of Living in Anchorage, Alaska
- We love Anchorage!
- Cons: Travel from Alaska Can Be Expensive.
- Pro: Plenty of Shopping Options.
- Pro: Personal Freedom.
- Con: Crime Rate.
- The Pros and Cons of Moving to Anchorage.
Do people in Alaska have SAD?
In stark contrast to equatorial parts of the world, where only about one percent of the population struggles with the issue, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) affects nearly 10% of Alaska’s population, ranking among the highest percentages ever recorded.
How do people in Alaska deal with the darkness?
“In the summer, Alaskans like to have blackout curtains and sleeping masks,” Drewitz said. “They help keep the room dark.” The only problem is, since indoor temperatures can get so warm in the summer, you need some airflow from the outdoors to make it more bearable if you don’t have air conditioning.
What should you avoid in Alaska?
20 Things Everyone In Alaska Should Avoid At All Costs
- Farmed seafood. Flickr/fs999.
- Or buying fish in general.
- Even feeding your dogs farmed fish.
- Eating hot dogs.
- Camping without a view.
- Snacking on chips from the lower 48.
- Shopping at big corporate box stores.
- Drinking wine that isn’t from Alaska.
What are some problems in Alaska?
Climate change is a problem facing Alaska in the future. A struggling educational system, abuse and a lot of bad parenting are the problems here and now.
Why do people move to Alaska?
Alaska has some of the best hunting and fishing anywhere in the world. If hunting and fishing are two of your favorite pastimes, you’ve come to the right place. Alaska offers some of the most unique hunting and fishing opportunities in the world.
What life in Alaska is like?
Some Alaskans choose an isolated and independent life in backwoods homesteads. But most live in modern homes, drive cars, watch television, and shop in modern stores. Alaska’s larger communities have fast food restaurants, theaters, recreation facilities, modern health care facilities, and the usual city conveniences.
What are the perks of living in Alaska?
In fact, Alaska pays you
If you choose to become a permanent Alaska resident, the state will pay you for simply living here. Each year, every Alaska resident can receive money from the oil-funded Permanent Fund Dividend, or PFD, more than $2,000 per person in 2015. You must reside here a full calendar year (Jan.
How do Alaskans stay warm?
For less-strenuous activities, heavy bibs and parkas are popular because they’ll keep you very warm when you’re stationary and they’ll block the wind well. If you’re hiking, skiing, or on snow shoes, you’ll want to move with your lighter layers, but still be able to carry warm, outer insulating layers in your pack.
Would I like living in Alaska?
The entirety of the state has a very laid-back feel to it, so if you love an easy-going flow, then Alaska is one of the best places for you to live. However, if you love the bustling pace of New York, you might go a little stir crazy in Anchorage. Come summer solstice, Anchorage gets 19.5 hours of sunlight in a day.
Is Alaska safe to live?
When it comes to violent crime and package theft, Alaska ranks among the top ten states with the least concern. Despite low levels of concern, 52% of Alaskans feel safe in their state, which is lower than the national average of 55%.
Can you live in Alaska without a job?
Employment. We do not recommend moving out of state alone, especially to Alaska, without having a job lined up. There are a lot of job opportunities available, but unless you have unlimited funds, having secure employment in place is a must before you make the move to Alaska.
How can depression be prevented in Alaska?
To overcome moodiness and depression in the winter months, gear up and get outside. Skiing, sledding, and hiking are all great ways to get moving and soak up some sun. Go for a drive. Spending a lot of time indoors can contribute to low mood.
How can I help seasonal depression in Alaska?
The use of “happy lights” or full-spectrum light sources, may also minimize seasonal symptoms. Try using them early in the day for 15-30 minutes to support a healthy circadian rhythm. We must also be aware that winter can increase thoughts of suicide for people struggling with their symptoms the most.
What are the statistics for suicide in Alaska?
Alaska’s suicide rate remains among the highest in the country — around 30 deaths per 100,000 people. It’s the leading cause of death among Alaska youth over the age of 15. Beverly Schoonover, director of the statewide Suicide Prevention Council, said this has been an issue long before COVID-19.
Does Alaska get hot?
While weather in Alaska can be sometimes a bit unpredictable, the summer season (mid-June through mid-August) is usually the mildest and warmest time of our year, especially in the Interior, where temperatures can reach well above 80°F / 27°C and when it is not uncommon to see temperatures reach 90°F / 33° C in
How many months does it stay dark in Alaska?
two months
The town of Utqiaġvik, Alaska — the northernmost town in the US — experiences a polar night every year, beginning in mid-November and ending in mid-January. That means that once the sun sets in November, residents won’t see daylight for two months.
