Tanning Bed Addictions
Tanning beds have been known to cause quite a few problems. There are urban legends about too much tanning melting vital organs. Of course, this is not provable, nor is it true. But there are valid studies and other assertions showing that tanning beds can significantly increase your risk of skin cancer. The American Academy Of Dermatology has put out quite a few statements and studies. But recently, some have begun to question the possibility of an addiction to tanning, especially in teens.
Researchers from the Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center recently took 14 regular tanners to two different tanning beds. One had ultraviolet radiation and the other didn’t. They were not told which was which, and this was conducted over 6 weeks. This study showed that when they were offered an extra week with their choice of tanning beds, 95% of subjects chose the ultraviolet bed. They talked about it actually making them feel more relaxed. And some studies have shown that it may increase the natural release of endorphins from the body.
They asked a number of questions such as questions about feeling embarrassed, being asked to stop by family members, being criticized, having to go on a regular basis, etc. They covered the criteria for many different addictions. And over half were found to respond in a way that would indicate that they have an addiction to tanning. One can technically be addicted to anything. But people are now recognizing this more because of the release of endorphins commonly associated with it. They have integrated this in part because of the problems and disease commonly associated with this.
Tanning can be addicting to be sure. And if you are using it excessively despite the knowledge of what it might do, and if friends and family seem to think of your actions as excessive, there may well be reason behind it. When you use tanning methods, you will find that of course, some simply enjoy it, and some rely on it for the treatment of problems with SAD. But most people not only do not need it, they should not use it. Those with SAD generally only use it during winter months. But it is important to keep yourself in check.