Sunny days may reduce the incidence of suicide. These are findings published this week by researchers who analyzed of 30 years suicide data in Austria, comparing the number of suicides on a given day to the corresponding history of cloudy days .

Two findings emerged. First, a single day of cloudiness may be the final straw for the person muddled in suicidal thinking. Second, a long period of cloudy days increases the risk of suicide.

Two take-away messages may be important for those who struggle with depression. First, you may not feel like going outside on sad days but these may be the most essential days to get into the sunlight. Second, when cloudy days follow cloudy days, it is vitally important to do things that stabilize or elevate your mood. Exercise, call a friend, or do that good thing that helps you feel better. And, reach out to a counselor or physician without delay if destructive thoughts begin to dominate your thinking.

Whether you experience periods of depressed mood or not, get outside in the sunshine this week. It may lighten your eyes as well as your spirit.

(1) Benjamin Vyssoki and others. Direct Effect of Sunshine on Suicide. JAMA Psychiatry. Published online September 10, 2014