Why do we feel happier when the sun’s out?

Why do we feel happier when the sun’s out?

From What's Up Docs? by BBC Radio 4

March 31, 2026 · 29 min · Episode 128

About this episode

The episode explores the relationship between sunlight and mood, featuring insights from Professor Hester Parr.

Welcome to What’s Up Docs?, the podcast where doctors and identical twins Chris and Xand van Tulleken cut through the confusion around every aspect of our health and wellbeing. In this episode, Chris and Xand will shine a light on…light. They discuss why the sun can help lift our mood, and its effects on our sleep and general wellbeing. Joining them to discuss this is Professor Hester Parr, a professor of Human Geography with an interest in sunlight's effect on mental health and runs the research group Living with Seasonal Affective Disorder. If you want to get in touch, you can email us at whatsupdocs@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on 08000 665 123. Presenters: Drs Chris and Xand van Tulleken Guest: Professor Hester Parr Producer: Claire Justin Video Producer: Leon Gower Executive Producer: Rami Tzabar Editor: Jo Rowntree Tech Lead: Reuben Huxtable Digital Lead: Richard Berry Composer: Phoebe McFarlane Sound Design: Melvin Rickarby At the BBC: Assistant Commissioner: Greg Smith Commissioning Editor: Rhian Roberts A Loftus Media production for BBC Radio 4

People in this episode

Hosts: Chris van Tulleken, Xand van Tulleken

Guest: Hester Parr

Topics covered

  • happiness
  • sunlight
  • mental health
  • wellbeing
  • sleep
  • Seasonal Affective Disorder

Keywords

  • happiness
  • sunlight
  • mood
  • mental health
  • wellbeing
  • sleep
  • Seasonal Affective Disorder

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: BBC Radio 4, Living with Seasonal Affective Disorder

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