The harmful Effects of Sunlight Deprivation on Humans

Sunlight is a fundamental aspect of human well-being, contributing to physical and mental health. While its benefits are often overlooked, depriving individuals of adequate access to direct sunlight can have severe negative consequences, leading to physical and psychological harm. Denying inmates adequate access to direct sunlight may lead to severe consequences, raising concerns of cruel and unusual punishment. This fact sheet presents evidence on the harmful effects of sunlight deprivation and its impact on human health.

Current science shows that human beings require sunlight to set human circadian rhythm. Disruption of the human circadian rhythm disrupts sleep and human sleep rhythms. Humans have a molecular clock in all metabolic tissues. And without the sun's rays on skin, humans' molecular clocks become misaligned and human metabolic tissues dysfunction so humans develop serious chronic illnesses including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, metabolic diseases, and cancers. 

Sunlight is a primary source of Vitamin D, vital for bone health and a strong immune system. Prolonged deprivation may increase the risk of osteoporosis, fractures, and immune-related disorders, endangering inmates' physical well-being.

Exposure to sunlight stimulates the release of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood. Sunlight deprivation may exacerbate depression, anxiety, and stress levels among inmates, impeding their ability to cope with incarceration.

Sunlight is crucial for maintaining circadian rhythms, which regulate sleep-wake cycles. Deprivation disrupts these rhythms, leading to sleep disturbances and chronic fatigue among inmates, affecting their daily functioning.

Studies show that sunlight enhances cognitive function, memory, and focus. Depriving inmates of sun light impairs cognitive abilities, making it hard to concentrate and engage in educational programs and rehabilitation, causes memory loss

A lack of sunlight can impede the effectiveness of rehabilitation efforts, hindering the chances of successful reentry into society upon release. Adequate access to natural light can positively influence inmate behavior and increase their prospects for successful rehabilitation.

Regardless of the circumstances, every individual deserves humane treatment. Acknowledging the importance of sunlight on health underscores the need for fair and compassionate treatment, even for those who have committed offenses.

The 14th Amendment prohibits punishment prior to conviction. Denying people, regardless of their conviction status, adequate access to direct sunlight can lead to a myriad of deleterious effects on their physical and mental health, impeding rehabilitation efforts. By recognizing the human impact of sunlight deprivation, we can advocate for fair and compassionate treatment, reinforcing the ethical imperative to uphold the well-being of all individuals.

Note: The information provided in this fact sheet is based on scientific research and studies conducted up to September 2021. For further inquiries or updated data, please refer to reputable sources or consult experts in the field.