1
|
|
2
|
Murray G, Allen NB, Rawlings D, Trinder J. Seasonality and personality: a prospective investigation of Five Factor Model correlates of mood seasonality. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF PERSONALITY 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/per.462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to explore winter pattern seasonality of mood by investigating its Five Factor Model (FFM) correlates. The study was an advance on existing research in that seasonality was measured not as a retrospective self‐description of mood variation, but as a prospective pattern of current mood states in winter and summer (across two years). Based on contemporary theorizing about the structure and function of mood, Positive Affect (PA) was the mood construct selected for measurement. A seasonality score was calculated for each participant as the difference between summer mood levels and winter mood levels. The NEO‐FFI was administered at all four waves. Three hundred and three respondents from a random community sample in Melbourne, Australia, provided complete data. Regression analyses found that the adaptive trait Openness to Experience (O) was specifically associated with the tendency towards lowered mood in winter relative to summer. The vulnerability trait Neuroticism (N) was not a directional predictor of winter pattern seasonality, but was the sole predictor of absolute seasonality score. Findings are discussed in terms of two affective processes that may be involved in mood variation across the seasonal time frame: adaptive environmental sensitivity and endogenous mood variability. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Greg Murray
- School of Social and Behavioural Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, Australia
| | - Nicholas B. Allen
- Department of Psychology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - David Rawlings
- Department of Psychology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - John Trinder
- Department of Psychology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Chen Y, He G, Chen B, Wang S, Ju G, Ge T. The association between PM2.5 exposure and suicidal ideation: a prefectural panel study. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:293. [PMID: 32138702 PMCID: PMC7059660 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-8409-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2019] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Suicidal ideation is subject to serious underestimation among existing public health studies. While numerous factors have been recognized in affecting suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STB), the associated environmental risks have been poorly understood. Foremost among the various environment risks were air pollution, in particular, the PM2.5. The present study attempted to examine the relationship between PM2.5 level and local weekly index of suicidal ideation (ISI). Methods Using Internet search query volumes in Baidu (2017), the largest internet search engine in China, we constructed a prefectural panel data (278 prefectures, 52 weeks) and employed dynamic panel GMM system estimation to analyze the relationship between weekly concentration of PM2.5 (Mean = 87 μg·m− 3) and the index of suicidal ideation (Mean = 49.9). Results The results indicate that in the spring and winter, a 10 μg·m− 3 increase in the prior week’s PM2.5 in a Chinese city is significantly associated with 0.020 increase in ISI in spring and a 0.007 increase in ISI in winter, after taking account other co-pollutants and meteorological conditions. Conclusion We innovatively proposed the measure of suicidal ideation and provided suggestive evidence of a positive association between suicidal ideation and PM2.5 level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yunsong Chen
- Johns Hopkins University-Nanjing University Center for Chinese and American Studies, Gulou District, Nanjing, 210093, China.
| | - Guangye He
- School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Nanjing University, 163 Xianlin Road, Qixia District, Nanjing, 210023, China.
| | - Buwei Chen
- The First Affiliated Hospital with Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210029, China.
| | - Senhu Wang
- The University of Cambridge, 16 Mill Lane, Cambridge, CB2 1SB, UK
| | - Guodong Ju
- School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Nanjing University, 163 Xianlin Road, Qixia District, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Ting Ge
- School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Nanjing University, 163 Xianlin Road, Qixia District, Nanjing, 210023, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Øverland S, Woicik W, Sikora L, Whittaker K, Heli H, Skjelkvåle FS, Sivertsen B, Colman I. Seasonality and symptoms of depression: A systematic review of the literature. Epidemiol Psychiatr Sci 2019; 29:e31. [PMID: 31006406 PMCID: PMC8061295 DOI: 10.1017/s2045796019000209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2018] [Revised: 03/08/2019] [Accepted: 03/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Lay opinions and published papers alike suggest mood varies with the seasons, commonly framed as higher rates of depression mood in winter. Memory and confirmation bias may have influenced previous studies. We therefore systematically searched for and reviewed studies on the topic, but excluded study designs where explicit referrals to seasonality were included in questions, interviews or data collection. METHODS Systematic literature search in Cochrane database, DARE, Medline, Embase, PsychINFO and CINAHL, reporting according to the PRISMA framework, and study quality assessment using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. Two authors independently assessed each study for inclusion and quality assessment. Due to large heterogeneity, we used a descriptive review of the studies. RESULTS Among the 41 included studies, there was great heterogeneity in regards to included symptoms and disorder definitions, operationalisation and measurement. We also observed important heterogeneity in how definitions of 'seasons' as well as study design, reporting and quality. This heterogeneity precluded meta-analysis and publication bias analysis. Thirteen of the studies suggested more depression in winter. The remaining studies suggested no seasonal pattern, seasonality outside winter, or inconclusive results. CONCLUSIONS The results of this review suggest that the research field of seasonal variations in mood disorders is fragmented, and important questions remain unanswered. There is some support for seasonal variation in clinical depression, but our results contest a general population shift towards lower mood and more sub-threshold symptoms at regular intervals throughout the year. We suggest future research on this issue should be aware of potential bias by design and take into account other biological and behavioural seasonal changes that may nullify or exacerbate any impact on mood.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simon Øverland
- Division of Mental and Physical Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Psychosocial Science, Faculty of Psychology, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Wojtek Woicik
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Lindsey Sikora
- Health Sciences Library, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Hans Heli
- Lovisenberg Diaconal Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Børge Sivertsen
- Division of Mental and Physical Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Mental Health, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Research and Innovation, Helse Fonna HF, Haugesund, Norway
| | - Ian Colman
- School of Epidemiology & Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
LoBello SG, Mehta S. No evidence of seasonal variation in mild forms of depression. J Behav Ther Exp Psychiatry 2019; 62:72-79. [PMID: 30248516 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbtep.2018.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2017] [Revised: 08/31/2018] [Accepted: 09/14/2018] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is ubiquitous in popular culture and has influenced psychiatric diagnosis with the inclusion of the seasonal pattern modifier for the Major Depressive Episode in DSM. However, recent research has not supported the association of Major Depressive Episode with seasonal changes. The present study was conducted to determine if a seasonally-related pattern of occurrence of mild variants of depression could be demonstrated in a population-based study. METHODS This is a cross-sectional U.S. survey of adults who completed the PHQ-8 Depression Scale with mild depression defined using a PHQ-8 cut score and a second model based on the DSM-5 diagnosis, Depression with insufficient symptoms. Regression models were used to determine if either variant of mild depression was related to season, latitude, or measures of daylight hours. RESULTS Neither measure of mild depression was related to daylight hours or its proxy measures. LIMITATIONS Screening instruments for depression, even if consistent with DSM-5 diagnostic criteria, do not allow a formal diagnosis of depression or the exclusion of similar-appearing disorders. Current depression symptoms but not duration of depressive episode is measured. CONCLUSIONS Mild depression is not related to seasonal changes or proxy measures of light exposure. The findings cast doubt on light deficiency as a causal factor of depressive disorders, which underpins the inclusion of the seasonal pattern modifier in DSM-5 and light supplementation as a treatment modality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Steven G LoBello
- Department of Psychology, Auburn University at Montgomery, 7430 East Drive, Montgomery, AL, 36117, United States.
| | - Sheila Mehta
- Department of Psychology, Auburn University at Montgomery, 7430 East Drive, Montgomery, AL, 36117, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Barbato G, Cirace F, Monteforte E, Costanzo A. Seasonal variation of spontaneous blink rate and beta EEG activity. Psychiatry Res 2018; 270:126-133. [PMID: 30245376 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2018.08.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2017] [Revised: 06/27/2018] [Accepted: 08/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Seasonal variations of the photoperiod have been shown to regulate biological and behavioral functions, with also effects on clinical symptom and course of several psychiatric conditions. Although melatonin is considered the principal signal used to transmit informations about the light and dark cycle, a dopamine (DA) role in regulating seasonal changes has been suggested. Few studies have addressed a seasonal pattern of dopamine, and human studies have been conducted on inter-subject differences, comparing measures obtained during fall-winter with those of spring-summer. We studied within-subject seasonal changes of blink rate (BR), a indirect marker of central DA activity, in 26 normal subjects (15 females and 11 males, mean age: 24.7 ± 4.0) during winter, spring, summer and fall. Occipital EEG activity and subjective measures of vigilance and mood were also assessed to account for variations on arousal and fatigue. A significant seasonal effect was found for BR, with higher rate in summer, and for EEG beta activity, with higher activity in spring and summer. Subjective fatigue was found higher in winter. According to our data, it is possible that higher BR and increased EEG beta activity result by an arousal activation sustained by dopamine systems during the months with a long photoperiod.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Barbato
- Department of Psychology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy.
| | - Fulvio Cirace
- Department of Psychology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Erika Monteforte
- Department of Psychology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Antonio Costanzo
- Department of Psychology, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
On the Neuroscience of Approach and Withdrawal Motivation, with a Focus on the Role of Asymmetrical Frontal Cortical Activity. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1108/s0749-742320160000019003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register]
|
8
|
Cobb BS, Coryell WH, Cavanaugh J, Keller M, Solomon DA, Endicott J, Potash JB, Fiedorowicz JG. Seasonal variation of depressive symptoms in unipolar major depressive disorder. Compr Psychiatry 2014; 55:1891-9. [PMID: 25176622 PMCID: PMC4254297 DOI: 10.1016/j.comppsych.2014.07.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2014] [Revised: 07/10/2014] [Accepted: 07/30/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Retrospective and cross-sectional studies of seasonal variation of depressive symptoms in unipolar major depression have yielded conflicting results. We examined seasonal variation of mood symptoms in a long-term prospective cohort - the Collaborative Depression Study (CDS). METHODS The sample included 298 CDS participants from five academic centers with a prospectively derived diagnosis of unipolar major depression who were followed for at least ten years of annual or semi-annual assessments. Generalized linear mixed models were utilized to investigate the presence of seasonal patterns. In a subset of 271 participants followed for at least 20 years, the stability of a winter depressive pattern was assessed across the first two decades of follow-up. RESULTS A small increase in proportion of time depressed was found in the months surrounding the winter solstice, although the greatest symptom burden was seen in December through April with a peak in March. The relative burden of winter depressive symptoms in the first decade demonstrated no relationship to that of the second decade. The onset of new episodes was highest October through January, peaking in January. CONCLUSIONS There exists a small but statistically significant peak in depressive symptoms from the month of the winter solstice to the month of the spring equinox. However, the predominance of winter depressive symptoms did not appear stable over the long-term course of illness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bryan S. Cobb
- Carver College of Medicine, College of Public Health, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - William H. Coryell
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Public Health, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - Joseph Cavanaugh
- Department of Biostatistics, College of Public Health, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - Martin Keller
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, 02912
| | - David A. Solomon
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, 02912,UpToDate Inc., Waltham, MA
| | - Jean Endicott
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons,New York State Psychiatric Institute
| | - James B. Potash
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Public Health, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
| | - Jess G. Fiedorowicz
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Public Health, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA,Department of Internal Medicine, College of Public Health, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA,Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA,Corresponding author (J.G. Fiedorowicz): 200 Hawkins Drive W278GH, Iowa City, IA 52242,
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Winthorst WH, Roest AM, Bos EH, Meesters Y, Penninx BWJH, Nolen WA, de Jonge P. Self-attributed seasonality of mood and behavior: a report from the Netherlands study of depression and anxiety. Depress Anxiety 2014; 31:517-23. [PMID: 23695951 DOI: 10.1002/da.22130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2012] [Revised: 03/07/2013] [Accepted: 04/19/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Seasonal changes in mood and behavior are considered to be common in the general population and in patients with psychiatric disorders. However, in several studies this seasonality could not be demonstrated. The present study examined self-attributed seasonality of depressive symptoms among patients with a lifetime diagnosis of a depressive disorder (D), an anxiety disorder (A), a comorbid depressive and anxiety disorder (DA), and healthy controls (HC). METHODS The CIDI was used to establish diagnoses according to DSM-IV criteria in 2,168 participants of the Netherlands Study of Depression and Anxiety (NESDA). The Seasonal Pattern Assessment Questionnaire (SPAQ) was administered to assess variation in mood and behavior. RESULTS Of the 2,168 participants 53.5% reported seasonality of mood. Highest percentages of low mood were seen in the winter months. Although all groups showed this pattern of lowered mood during the winter months, D, A, and DA were significantly (P < .001) more likely to experience seasonality is this respect. This was also shown for seasonal changes in energy, social activities, sleeping, eating, weight and for the Global Seasonality Score. A limitation of this study was the cross-sectional design. CONCLUSIONS Seasonal variation in mood and behavior was demonstrated for both participants with a lifetime diagnosis of depression and/or anxiety disorder and for healthy controls, but patients with anxiety and/or depression were more likely to experience this seasonal variation. Clinicians should take into account that the time of the year could influence the feelings of well- and ill-being of their patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wim H Winthorst
- Department of Psychiatry and Interdisciplinary Center Psychopathology and Emotion regulation, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Should it matter when we record? Time of year and time of day as factors influencing frontal EEG asymmetry. Biol Psychol 2012; 91:283-91. [PMID: 22867950 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsycho.2012.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2011] [Revised: 06/13/2012] [Accepted: 06/14/2012] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Resting frontal encephalographic (EEG) asymmetry, often conceptualized as a trait marker for depression, is influenced by occasion-specific factors, including time of year and the time of day of the recording session as demonstrated recently (Peterson and Harmon-Jones, 2009). The current study examined the influence of seasonal and chronological variables on resting frontal asymmetry, and also assessed whether different reference montages or surface transformations were equally susceptible to these influences. In a direct replication attempt, contrary to previous findings, no simple time of year by time of day interaction was found. Time awake at recording, however, was an important moderating variable of the relationship between photoperiod and time of day. EEG asymmetry scores based on current-source density (CSD) transformed data, however, appeared less vulnerable to these influences, providing further evidence to suggest that the CSD transform may be advantageous for examining stable trait estimates of frontal EEG asymmetry.
Collapse
|
11
|
Winthorst WH, Post WJ, Meesters Y, Penninx BWHJ, Nolen WA. Seasonality in depressive and anxiety symptoms among primary care patients and in patients with depressive and anxiety disorders; results from the Netherlands Study of Depression and Anxiety. BMC Psychiatry 2011; 11:198. [PMID: 22182255 PMCID: PMC3280179 DOI: 10.1186/1471-244x-11-198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2011] [Accepted: 12/19/2011] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about seasonality of specific depressive symptoms and anxiety symptoms in different patient populations. This study aims to assess seasonal variation of depressive and anxiety symptoms in a primary care population and across participants who were classified in diagnostic groups 1) healthy controls 2) patients with a major depressive disorder, 3) patients with any anxiety disorder and 4) patients with a major depression and any anxiety disorder. METHODS Data were used from the Netherlands Study of Depression and Anxiety (NESDA). First, in 5549 patients from the NESDA primary care recruitment population the Kessler-10 screening questionnaire was used and data were analyzed across season in a multilevel linear model. Second, in 1090 subjects classified into four groups according to psychiatric status according to the Composite International Diagnostic Interview, overall depressive symptoms and atypical versus melancholic features were assessed with the Inventory of Depressive Symptoms. Anxiety and fear were assessed with the Beck Anxiety Inventory and the Fear questionnaire. Symptom levels across season were analyzed in a linear regression model. RESULTS In the primary care population the severity of depressive and anxiety symptoms did not show a seasonal pattern. In the diagnostic groups healthy controls and patients with any anxiety disorder, but not patients with a major depressive disorder, showed a small rise in depressive symptoms in winter. Atypical and melancholic symptoms were both elevated in winter. No seasonal pattern for anxiety symptoms was found. There was a small gender related seasonal effect for fear symptoms. CONCLUSIONS Seasonal differences in severity or type of depressive and anxiety symptoms, as measured with a general screening instrument and symptom questionnaires, were absent or small in effect size in a primary care population and in patient populations with a major depressive disorder and anxiety disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wim H Winthorst
- Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, The Netherlands.
| | - Wendy J Post
- Department of Epidemiology, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, the Netherlands,Department of Pedagogy & Educational Sciences, University of Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Ybe Meesters
- Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Brenda WHJ Penninx
- Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, the Netherlands,Department of Psychiatry/EMGO Institute/Neuroscience Campus Amsterdam, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands,Department of Psychiatry, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Willem A Nolen
- Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Huibers MJH, de Graaf LE, Peeters FPML, Arntz A. Does the weather make us sad? Meteorological determinants of mood and depression in the general population. Psychiatry Res 2010; 180:143-6. [PMID: 20494449 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2009.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2009] [Revised: 09/24/2009] [Accepted: 09/29/2009] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
It is a common and well-spread belief that people feel more depressed when the weather is bad. However, whether meteorological factors such as temperature, sunshine and rainfall can actually account for variations in the prevalence of depression in the general population has yet to be investigated. We aimed to assess the influence of weather conditions on the seasonal variation of depression observed in the general population. We used data from a large-scale depression-screening programme in the south of the Netherlands. Seasonal prevalence of DSM-IV classified major depression and sad mood in a sample of 14,478 participants from the general population was calculated, and linked to mean daily temperature, duration of sunshine and duration of rainfall in logistic regression analyses. The prevalence of major depression and sad mood showed seasonal variation, with peaks in the summer and fall. Weather conditions were not associated with mood, and did not explain the seasonal variation we found. We conclude that, contrary to popular belief, weather conditions and sad mood or depression do not seem to be associated. Future studies might use daily measures of well-being as outcome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marcus J H Huibers
- Department of Clinical Psychological Science, Maastricht University, The Netherlands.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Harmon-Jones E, Gable PA, Peterson CK. The role of asymmetric frontal cortical activity in emotion-related phenomena: A review and update. Biol Psychol 2010; 84:451-62. [PMID: 19733618 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsycho.2009.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 507] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2009] [Revised: 08/23/2009] [Accepted: 08/30/2009] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Eddie Harmon-Jones
- Department of Psychology, Texas A&M University, 4235 TAMU, College Station, TX 77845, USA.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Strong RE, Marchant BK, Reimherr FW, Williams E, Soni P, Mestas R. Narrow-band blue-light treatment of seasonal affective disorder in adults and the influence of additional nonseasonal symptoms. Depress Anxiety 2009; 26:273-8. [PMID: 19016463 DOI: 10.1002/da.20538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Bright visible-spectrum light therapy has proven effective in the treatment of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and recent basic research suggests that blue wavelengths approximately 470 nm account for that effectiveness. To more stringently test the importance of these wavelengths, bright red-light was used for the placebo (control) condition. METHODS Thirty subjects meeting DSM-IV criteria for SAD were randomized to narrow-band light-emitting diode panels emitting blue- or red-light in this 3-week, parallel, double-blind trial. Twenty-five subjects participated in an open-label blue-light follow-up. Subjects were divided in a blinded, post hoc manner into two groups: SAD only and those experiencing depression with seasonal intensification. The outcome was assessed using Hamilton Depression Rating Scale-17 item version (HAMD-17) and the Structured Interview Guide for the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale-SAD version. Responders were defined by Clinical Global Impression-Improvement scale. RESULTS HAMD-17 scores improved more under the blue-light condition (51%) than under the red-light condition (32%) (P=.05). Further, in the blue arm 60% of subjects responded compared with 13% in the red arm (P=.01). During the open-label phase, subjects from both double-blind arms improved over baseline. SAD alone patients responded numerically better to treatment than those experiencing depression with seasonal intensification during both treatment periods. CONCLUSIONS Narrow bandwidth blue-light therapy proved superior to red-light therapy. Blue-light therapy produced results similar to both previous 10,000 lux visible-spectrum light studies and many medication studies. The use of bright red panels supported claims that wavelengths of approximately 470 nm account for the documented effectiveness of light therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert E Strong
- Mood Disorders Clinic, Department of Psychiatry, University of Utah Health Sciences Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Goel N, Grasso DJ. Olfactory Discrimination and Transient Mood Change in Young Men and Women: Variation by Season, Mood State, and Time of Day. Chronobiol Int 2009; 21:691-719. [PMID: 15470963 DOI: 10.1081/cbi-200025989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Odor performance varies by clinical state and gender, though little is known about its variation by season or time of day. Many odors, including lavender, induce transient mood changes. This study explored discrimination differences between various lavender oil blends and their effects on transient mood in the morning and evening in depressed and nondepressed adults. We also determined seasonal influences on these measures. A total of 169 subjects, 98 women and 71 men (mean age +/- SD, 19.3 +/- 1.6 y) participated, with different subjects studied at different times of the year. The Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) classified subjects as depressed (score > or =10; N= 57) or nondepressed (score <10; N= 112). In the discrimination test, subjects compared pairs of two different lavender oil blends or a control. Transient change in mood was assessed by the Profile of Mood States (POMS) after each trial of five lavender blends interspersed by three control odors. Tests were conducted in the morning (08:00-10:00 h) and evening (18:00-20:00h). In all subjects, discrimination was significantly better for some odor pairs than for others, thus demonstrating test specificity. Discrimination was better overall in the fall than winter/spring and better in depressed than nondepressed subjects for specific odor pairs. No significant gender or time-of-day differences in discriminability were detected. There were, however, significant group differences in transient mood profiles. Current depressed state affected mood response, with lavender increasing anger in depressed subjects only. In addition, depressed subjects and men, whether or not depressed, exhibited diurnal mood variation, with better mood in the evening; the former group also showed more evening energy. All subjects were more confused in the morning than evening. Season also affected transient mood; winter/spring-tested subjects reported more vigor than fall-tested subjects. In addition, summer-tested subjects showed more tension in the morning, whereas fall-tested subjects showed the opposite pattern in the evening. In all subjects, lavender increased fatigue, tension, confusion, and total mood disturbance, and it decreased vigor. The study showed that both chronobiological (seasonal and time-of-day) and clinical factors modify discrimination and mood response to odors. Brief lavender odor presentation may serve as a nonphotic method for altering mood in young depressed and nondepressed adults particularly during the fall, a time of heightened discriminability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Namni Goel
- Department of Psychology, 207 High St., Judd Hall, Wesleyan University, Middletown, CT 06459, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Peterson CK, Harmon-Jones E. Circadian and seasonal variability of resting frontal EEG asymmetry. Biol Psychol 2009; 80:315-20. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsycho.2008.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2007] [Revised: 11/07/2008] [Accepted: 11/07/2008] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
|
17
|
ØYANE NICOLASM, URSIN REIDUN, PALLESEN STÅLE, HOLSTEN FRED, BJORVATN BJ. Self-reported seasonality is associated with complaints of sleep problems and deficient sleep duration: the Hordaland Health Study. J Sleep Res 2008; 17:63-72. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2869.2008.00628.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
18
|
Oyane NMF, Bjelland I, Pallesen S, Holsten F, Bjorvatn B. Seasonality is associated with anxiety and depression: the Hordaland health study. J Affect Disord 2008; 105:147-55. [PMID: 17573120 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2007.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2007] [Revised: 05/02/2007] [Accepted: 05/03/2007] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The purpose of this study was to assess how seasonal changes in mood and behaviour were associated with depression and anxiety symptoms in a sample from a general population, and to investigate how prevalence figures were affected by month of questionnaire completion. METHODS The target population included all individuals in the Hordaland county (Norway) born 1953-57 (N=29,400). In total, 8598 men (57% response rate) and 9983 women (70% response rate) attended the screening station. Half of the men (randomly chosen) and all of the women were offered a questionnaire to fill in with items on seasonality. This was measured using the Global Seasonality Score (GSS), a central component of the Seasonal Pattern Assessment Questionnaire (SPAQ). The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) was used to measure anxiety and depression. Both questionnaires were completed by 2980 men (68.9%) and 8074 women (80.9%). RESULTS Seasonality was positively associated with levels of both anxiety and depression regardless of the season the interview took place. In subjects with a low/moderate degree of seasonality there were modestly higher levels of depressive symptoms during November through March than the other months. LIMITATIONS We had a substantial number of non-responders. CONCLUSIONS Our results raise the possibility of seasonality being a separate dimensional trait associated with both anxiety and depression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas M F Oyane
- Department of Public Health and Primary Health Care, University of Bergen, Norway.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Abstract
The prevalence of winter depression was unknown in Sweden, therefore prevalence figures of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and subsyndromal SAD (S-SAD) were estimated. Age and gender differences, prevalence in the group of non-responders and some psychometric qualities of the Seasonal Pattern Assessment Questionnaire (SPAQ) were calculated. A modified version of the SPAQ was sent to a random sample of 2500 persons (response rate 66.3%, n=1657) between 18 and 64 years residing in Dalarna, a county in central Sweden. The sample was proportionally stratified according to age, gender and home municipality. The prevalence of winter SAD was estimated at 8% and S-SAD at 10.8%. It was approximately twice as common among women and younger persons. A total of 3.1% reported seasonal problems to be severe or disabling and 19.3% that everyday life was negatively affected. Experiencing seasonally changing depressive symptoms was common in the population. Factor analysis of the Global Seasonal Score resulted in one factor and the internal consistency was 0.88 (Cronbach's alpha). The results indicate that self-reported recurrent depression during winter is common in Sweden and should therefore receive more attention from health care authorities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Rastad
- Center for Clinical Research Dalarna (CKF), Falun, Sweden. cecilia,
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Abstract
The operational criteria for seasonal affective disorder (SAD) have undergone several changes since first proposed in 1984. SAD is currently included as a specifier of either bipolar or recurrent major depressive disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition. The International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Edition has provisional diagnostic criteria for SAD. The most characteristic quality of SAD is that the symptoms usually present during winter and remit in the spring. Furthermore, the symptoms tend to remit when the patients are exposed to daylight or bright light therapy. The cognitive and emotional symptoms are as in other types of depression but the vegetative symptoms are the reverse of classic depressive vegetative symptoms, namely increased sleep and increased appetite. SAD is a common condition, but the exact prevalence rates vary between different studies and countries and is consistently found to be more common in women and in youth. SAD probably possibly occurs in children although not as commonly as in young adults. Some studies have found that certain ethnic groups who live at high northern latitudes may have adapted to the long arctic winter.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andres Magnusson
- Department of Psychiatry, Aker University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.
| | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Natale V, Adan A, Scapellato P. Are seasonality of mood and eveningness closely associated? Psychiatry Res 2005; 136:51-60. [PMID: 16023219 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2004.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2004] [Revised: 10/13/2004] [Accepted: 12/16/2004] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
It has been suggested that being an "evening type" might enhance susceptibility to non-seasonal and seasonal affective disorders (SAD). In a survey and a prospective study, we examine the relationship between mood seasonality and circadian typology. In the survey study, the Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire (MEQ) and the Seasonal Pattern Assessment Questionnaire (SPAQ) were administered to 1715 university students from Spain and Italy. In the prospective study, 18 subjects, selected from the Italian sample, self-assessed their mood monthly for over a year. A slight but significant negative correlation between the MEQ score and the Global Seasonality Score was found in the survey study, with a significantly higher incidence of evening versus morning types among the students with seasonal depression. These results were not replicated when the Spanish sample was analysed separately. In the prospective study, evening types did not present a higher annual range of mood variations than morning types. Caution should be exercised in ascribing eveningness as a risk factor in SAD since other underestimated factors, including social-cultural conditions, might be involved in the pathogenesis of mood seasonality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Natale
- Department of Psychology, University of Bologna, Viale Berti Pichat 5, I-40127 Bologna, Italy.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
de Craen AJM, Gussekloo J, van der Mast RC, le Cessie S, Lemkes JW, Westendorp RGJ. Seasonal mood variation in the elderly: the Leiden 85-plus study. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry 2005; 20:269-73. [PMID: 15717337 DOI: 10.1002/gps.1277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The influence of seasonal changes on mood and behaviour is called seasonality. The prevalence of seasonality in elderly subjects is unknown. AIM To investigate the seasonality pattern in mood and behaviour at old age. METHODS All subjects from the Leiden 85-plus Study with an MMSE score of 19 or more were assessed for depressive feelings at age 85 and yearly thereafter. The influence of time of the year, duration of sunlight, daylight, and rain on the prevalence of depressive symptoms was assessed using linear mixed models for repeated measurements. RESULTS There was no significant seasonal pattern in the data (p=0.44). Within each of the four years of observation (85, 86, 87 and 88 years) and all years combined, there was also no significant association between the one-month cumulation of duration of sunlight, daylight, or rain and the score on the GDS (all p-values >0.05). The results of either the one week or three-month accumulation of sunlight, daylight, or rain were comparable to the one-month results. CONCLUSIONS Estimates of prevalence of seasonality reported in the literature might be overestimated or a remarkable difference between young and old subjects exists.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anton J M de Craen
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Section of Gerontology and Geriatrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Steingrímsdóttir OA, Vøllestad NK, Røe C, Knardahl S. Variation in reporting of pain and other subjective health complaints in a working population and limitations of single sample measurements. Pain 2004; 110:130-9. [PMID: 15275760 DOI: 10.1016/j.pain.2004.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2003] [Revised: 03/04/2004] [Accepted: 03/08/2004] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Measuring health complaints by administrating a single report is common. Our aim was to assess variation in pain and other subjective complaints over an extended period, whether a single-sample produces representative data, and determine associations between complaints. Health-complaint reports were collected from postal workers at monthly intervals over a period of 32-34 consecutive months (1997-2000). We computed six compound complaint-severity indices of 30 complaint-severity scores (intensity score x duration score, scale 0-9). In 67% of the scores, the complaints exhibited larger deviation from a reference (12 consecutive reports in the last 24 months of the study period) when using one report from the respective reference period compared with the mean of two consecutive reports. Four consecutive samples were needed to obtain agreement for 95% of the data when the criterion of accepted deviation from the reference was set to +/-1.0. Neither inspection of graphs nor statistical tests revealed any seasonal pattern or trend on either a group or individual level. The musculoskeletal and psychological complaint-severity indices correlated strongly (rs > 0.66). Correlations between the different somatic indices were generally weak or moderate (rs < 0.55). The initial report produced higher complaint ratings than subsequent reports did. Due to large intra-individual complaint variability and higher complaint-severity level exhibited on the initial report compared to those that followed, measuring subjective health with a single-sample approach does not produce data representativeness for average complaints over a period. More than two samples should be collected when the purpose is to reveal changes in health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olöf A Steingrímsdóttir
- Department of Physiology, National Institute of Occupational Health, P.O. Box 8149, Dep, N-0033 Oslo, Norway.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
|
25
|
Thompson C, Thompson S, Smith R. Prevalence of seasonal affective disorder in primary care; a comparison of the seasonal health questionnaire and the seasonal pattern assessment questionnaire. J Affect Disord 2004; 78:219-26. [PMID: 15013246 DOI: 10.1016/s0165-0327(02)00314-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2002] [Revised: 08/02/2002] [Accepted: 08/16/2002] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prevalence rates of SAD suggested by previous studies have ranged from 1 to 12% depending on the diagnostic criteria used. The Seasonal Pattern Assessment Questionnaire (SPAQ), a widely used screening tool, has been shown to have low specificity for SAD. The Seasonal Health Questionnaire (SHQ) was designed to better reflect the clinical criteria for SAD and has been shown to have a higher specificity then the SPAQ in a psychiatric outpatient setting. OBJECTIVE The current study was designed to assess the validity of the SHQ in general practice against systematic research interviews, to compare the sensitivity, specificity and positive predictive values of the SHQ and the SPAQ and to use these data to estimate the prevalence of SAD in primary care. METHODS 809 subjects in a consecutive series of patients attending Southampton general practices in winter 2000/01 completed the SHQ followed by the SPAQ; 56 were interviewed using the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM (SCID). RESULTS The SHQ was more sensitive and specific than the SPAQ and had higher positive and negative predictive values in screening for SAD. The SPAQ indicated a prevalence of SAD of 10.7% (95% CI 8.6-13.1) while the SHQ provided a significantly lower estimate of 5.6% (95% CI 4.2-7.4).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chris Thompson
- Community Clinical Sciences Research Division, University of Southampton, Royal South Hants Hospital, Brinton's Terrace, Southampton SO19 4YP, UK.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Christensen EM, Larsen JK, Gjerris A. The stability of the Seasonal Pattern Assessment Questionnaire score index over time and the validity compared to classification according to DSM-III-R. J Affect Disord 2003; 74:167-72. [PMID: 12706518 DOI: 10.1016/s0165-0327(02)00009-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 1984, Rosenthal et al. described a group of patients characterised by repeated winter depression with atypical symptoms eventually followed by summer mania or hypomania (seasonal affective disorder, SAD). The relationship between SAD and the classical manic-depressive disorder is uncertain. The aim of this study was to validate the Seasonal Pattern Assessment Questionnaire (SPAQ) classification in relation to the DSM-III-R criteria of seasonal patterns in a group of patients with bipolar affective disorder and to evaluate the stability of the SPAQ score index over time. METHODS A group of bipolar patients were followed for 3 years with examinations every third month and at hospitalisation. At inclusion and at each following examination the patients were rated with the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, the Newcastle Depression Rating Scale, and the Bech-Rafaelsen Mania Rating Scale. At inclusion and once a year the patients completed the SPAQ. RESULTS Fifty-six patients agreed to participate and 46 patients completed 1 year or more. Eight patients, all women, had at least one SPAQ score index (SSI) of 11 or more. Women scored significantly higher than men on SPAQ. The test/re-test reliability of SSI between two consecutive years was good, but decreased as the time difference between tests increased. Moreover, we found no relation between seasonal variations of affective episodes according to SSI and DSM-III-R. LIMITATIONS The group of patients with seasonality according to DSM-III-R or SSI was small. CONCLUSION The validity of SSI between two consecutive years is good, but decreases as the time difference between tests increases. There is no relationship between seasonality defined by DSM-III-R and SSI. Female bipolar patients show, as the general population, seasonal variations in mood, energy, sociality, appetite, and sleep independently of their affective episodes. SSI cannot be used for the prediction of seasonal variation in a group of bipolar patients.
Collapse
|
27
|
Young MA, Blodgett C, Reardon A. Measuring seasonality: psychometric properties of the Seasonal Pattern Assessment Questionnaire and the Inventory for Seasonal Variation. Psychiatry Res 2003; 117:75-83. [PMID: 12581822 DOI: 10.1016/s0165-1781(02)00299-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
There is a general consensus that seasonal changes in mood, behavior and vegetative functions vary in magnitude across the general population. Studying the dimension of seasonality requires reliable and valid measures. This study examined and compared the psychometric properties of the Seasonal Pattern Assessment Questionnaire (SPAQ) and the Inventory for Seasonal Variation (ISV) in 148 college students; 73 also completed a retest 2 months later. Results indicated good psychometric properties for both scales in terms of score distributions, test-retest reliability, internal consistency, factor structure and item-latent trait relationships using item response theory. Given the long history of its use and some small psychometric and simplicity advantages for the SPAQ, its continued use as a dimensional measure of seasonality is indicated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael A Young
- Institute of Psychology, Illinois Institute of Technology, 3101 S. Dearborn Avenue, Chicago 60616, USA.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
McConville C, McQuaid M, McCartney A, Gilmore W. Mood and behaviour problems associated with seasonal changes in Britain and Ireland. Int J Soc Psychiatry 2002; 48:103-14. [PMID: 12182505 DOI: 10.1177/002076402128783154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research from across the world has shown that rates of seasonal mood disturbances may vary according to such factors as geographical location, age and gender. Little is known of the nature of these problems within representative community samples in UK and Ireland. AIMS In two studies we examined the extent to which winter disrupts mood and behaviour among random samples of British and Irish adults. METHODS In the first study, 533 adults randomly chosen from electoral data from four towns spread across 50-58 degrees N completed the Seasonal Pattern Assessment Questionnaire (SPAQ). In the second study, 498 adults from two towns in Northern Ireland (54 degrees N) completed the SPAQ. RESULTS Although the combined response rate across the two studies was low (20.5%), the prevalence rates were similar to several other western European sites. The rate of SAD and S-SAD averaged across the six centres as determined from strict SPAQ criteria, was 6.7% and 10.5% respectively. There was some variability in rates from town to town, with one Northern Irish town presenting rates more associated with areas at much lower latitudes, although most differences between towns were not significant. As in most other studies, females of reproductive age tended to supply the higher number of incidences. CONCLUSION This report from community samples across six sites confirms earlier suggestions that rates of seasonal disturbance in mood and behaviour deserve serious consideration by mental health practitioners throughout the region.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chris McConville
- School of Psychology, University of Ulster, Coleraine, Co. Londonderry
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
|
30
|
Abstract
A prospective panel study was conducted to measure seasonality of mood in a random community sample in Melbourne, Australia (N = 245). Based on research into the structure of human mood, it was predicted that a lowering of mood in winter relative to summer would be observed in positive affect (PA) and behavioral engagement (BE), but not negative affect (NA). These variables were measured across summer and winter for 3 years. Consistent with the majority of research in the Northern Hemisphere, analyses on the entire sample found evidence of a small prospective season effect on the BE scale (explaining 2.1% of variance in BE scores). Also, as expected, no season effect was seen on the NA scale. In the entire sample, the season effect was not significant for PA, but joint factor analysis of the BE, PA, and NA scales confirmed that the season effect seen in the BE scale was largely due to items that were pure measures of PA. Winter pattern seasonality was both reliable across measures and significantly more marked among the subgroup of respondents who self-identified winter pattern of mood on the Seasonal Pattern Assessment Questionnaire.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G Murray
- Department of Psychology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Thompson C, Cowan A. The Seasonal Health Questionnaire: a preliminary validation of a new instrument to screen for seasonal affective disorder. J Affect Disord 2001; 64:89-98. [PMID: 11292523 DOI: 10.1016/s0165-0327(00)00208-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The main screening tool for Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is the Seasonal Pattern Assessment Questionnaire, but its reliability and validity have been thrown into doubt by several studies. METHOD In this study we developed a new questionnaire, the Seasonal Health Questionnaire (SHQ), which is scored by computer to derive the four main operational criteria for diagnosis of SAD. A group of clinically diagnosed SAD patients was contrasted with a group of patients with recurrent non-seasonal depressive disorder using the SPAQ and the SHQ. RESULTS The SHQ could be completed without difficulty by patients with long histories of recurrent mood disorder. The SPAQ and the Rosenthal Criteria were the least specific of the criteria for identifying SAD - misclassifying many non-seasonal patients. CONCLUSIONS After further development the SHQ may be a more appropriate screening instrument for SAD. The SPAQ should no longer be used for this purpose as it gives misleadingly high estimates of prevalence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Thompson
- Research Division of Community Clinical Sciences, Department of Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.
| | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Harmatz MG, Well AD, Overtree CE, Kawamura KY, Rosal M, Ockene IS. Seasonal variation of depression and other moods: a longitudinal approach. J Biol Rhythms 2000; 15:344-50. [PMID: 10942266 DOI: 10.1177/074873000129001350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The present study examined the effect of season of the year on depression and other moods. Previous work, primarily cross sectional or retrospective in design and involving clinically depressed or seasonally affective disordered samples, has suggested that mood changes as a function of season. However, the literature also shows conflicting and/or inconsistent findings about the extent and nature of this relationship. Importantly, these prior studies have not adequately answered the question of whether there is a seasonal effect in nondepressed people. The present study employed a longitudinal design and a large sample drawn from a normal population. The results, based on those participants for whom mood measures were collected in each season, demonstrated strong seasonal effects. Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) scores were highest in winter and lowest in summer. Ratings on scales of hostility, anger, irritability, and anxiety also showed very strong seasonal effects. Further analyses revealed that seasonal variation in BDI scores differed for females and males. Females had higher BDI scores that showed strong seasonal variation, whereas males had lower BDI scores that did not vary significantly across season of the year.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M G Harmatz
- Department of Psychology, University of Massachusetts at Amherst, 01003, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Abstract
BACKGROUND The relative shortage of light during the decreasing photoperiod may compromise well-being. Earlier studies suggest that bright-light exposure may be of help to alleviate winter-bound symptoms. METHODS We carried out a field study with exposure to bright light on office employees during winter. RESULTS Repeated bright-light exposure improved vitality and reduced depressive symptoms. The benefit was observed not only in healthy subjects with season-dependent symptoms but also in those not having the seasonal variation. CONCLUSIONS Bright-light exposure during winter appears to be effective at improving the health-related quality of life and alleviating distress in healthy subjects. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Administration of bright light is a useful option to improve vitality and mood among subjects working indoors in wintertime. LIMITATIONS OF STUDY: Our field setting used self-reports, not interviews, for the assessment of outcome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- T Partonen
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.
| | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Molina-Hernandez M, Téllez-Alcántara P. Long photoperiod regimen may produce antidepressant actions in the male rat. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2000; 24:105-16. [PMID: 10659987 DOI: 10.1016/s0278-5846(99)00084-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The exposure to bright light reverts the depressive symptoms of seasonally affective disorder. Rats received tricyclic antidepressants or were submitted to two photoperiod regimens. After treatments, the rats were forced to swim or were submitted to the differential reinforcement of the low-rate 72s schedule. Two animal models designed to testing the antidepressant effects of drugs. Clomipramine, desipramine or the long photoperiod decreased immobility in rats forced to swim. In the differential reinforcement of the low-rate 72s schedule, clomipramine, desipramine or the long photoperiod increased the reinforcers obtained by the rats. It is concluded that the long photoperiod regimen may produce antidepressant effects in male Wistar rats.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Molina-Hernandez
- Laboratorio de Conducta, Instituto de Investigaciones Psicológicas, Universidad Veracruzana, México.
| | | |
Collapse
|
35
|
Eagles JM, Wileman SM, Cameron IM, Howie FL, Lawton K, Gray DA, Andrew JE, Naji SA. Seasonal affective disorder among primary care attenders and a community sample in Aberdeen. Br J Psychiatry 1999; 175:472-5. [PMID: 10789281 DOI: 10.1192/bjp.175.5.472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are no large published studies of the prevalence of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) among UK populations. AIM To determine the prevalence of SAD among patients attending a general practitioner (GP). METHOD Patients aged 16-64 consulting their GPs in Aberdeen during January were screened with the Seasonal Pattern Assessment Questionnaire (SPAQ). SPAQs were also mailed to 600 matched patients, who had not consulted their GP during January. Surgery attenders who fulfilled SPAQ criteria for SAD were invited for interview to determine whether they met criteria for SAD in DSM-IV and the Structured Interview Guide for the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression--Seasonal Affective Disorder Version (SIGH-SAD). RESULTS Of 6161 surgery attenders, 4557 (74%) completed a SPAQ; 442 (9.7%) were SPAQ cases of SAD. Rate of caseness on the SPAQ did not differ between surgery attenders and non-attenders. Of 223 interviewed SPAQ cases of SAD, 91 (41%) also fulfilled DSM-IV and SIGH-SAD criteria. CONCLUSIONS There is a high prevalence of SAD among patients attending their GPs in January in Aberdeen; this is likely to reflect a similar rate in the community.
Collapse
|
36
|
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and the theory of the effect of light on depression have gained some popularity in recent years. Research on epidemiology is largely based on retrospective measures asking explicitly for the experience of seasonal variations. Those measures have a low positive predictive value and do not enable us to distinguish between experience and belief. METHOD A consecutive sample of chronic pain patients filled out a depression questionnaire (CES-D) routinely as part of the diagnostic interview on becoming in-patients at a Pain Clinic in Mainz during a 5-year period. RESULTS No support for seasonality or light effects was found. CONCLUSION The effect of light on depression or seasonality may be smaller than expected in general. SAD as a true disorder is probably rare.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Hardt
- Department of Psychology, University of Mainz, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Mersch PP, Middendorp HM, Bouhuys AL, Beersma DG, van den Hoofdakker RH. Seasonal affective disorder and latitude: a review of the literature. J Affect Disord 1999; 53:35-48. [PMID: 10363665 DOI: 10.1016/s0165-0327(98)00097-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of the study is to investigate the relationship between the prevalence of SAD and latitude. METHODS An overview of the epidemiological literature on the prevalence of SAD is given and studies relevant for the latitudinal dependency of prevalence will be analyzed and discussed. RESULTS The mean prevalence of SAD is two times higher in North America compared to Europe. Over all prevalence studies, the correlation between prevalence and latitude was not significant. A significant positive correlation was found between prevalence and latitude in North America. For Europe there was a trend in the same direction. CONCLUSIONS The influence of latitude on prevalence seems to be small and other factors like climate, genetic vulnerability and social-cultural context can be expected to play a more important role. Additional controlled studies taking these factors into account are necessary to identify their influence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- P P Mersch
- Department of Biological Psychiatry, University Hospital Groningen, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Abstract
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a form of recurrent depressive or bipolar disorder, with episodes that vary in severity. Seasonal patterns of depressive episodes are common, but SAD seems to be less common than such patterns suggest. SAD was at first believed to be related to abnormal melatonin metabolism, but later findings did not support this hypothesis. Studies of brain serotonin function support the hypothesis of disturbed activity. The short-allele polymorphism for serotonin transporter is more common in patients with SAD than in healthy people. Atypical depressive symptoms commonly precede impaired functioning, and somatic symptoms are frequently the presenting complaint at visits to family physicians. The best treatment regimens include 2500 Ix of artificial light exposure in the morning. When patients seem to have no response or to prefer another treatment, antidepressants should be considered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- T Partonen
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Helsinki, National Public Health Institute, Finland.
| | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to determine whether there is any temporal variation in the incidence of parasuicide within the Chinese community and, if possible, to correlate the findings with prevailing cultural and social influences. METHOD All patients of Chinese origin referred to a teaching hospital in Singapore between 1990 and 1994 were included in the study. The cases were divided by sex and aggregated for the month and day of the week in which the parasuicides occurred. RESULTS Cases of parasuicide peaked on Mondays, while the lowest incidences occurred on Saturdays. The peak months were June, August and September with a trough in December and January. CONCLUSIONS The findings may not be amenable to any single explanation but the peak months coincided with the month of the Hungry Ghosts, which is believed to be a particularly inauspicious period, while the trough occurred during a festive period. Similarly, looking at the student population, the peaks coincided with the examination period. It appears that social and cultural factors play a significant role in the temporal variation in parasuicide in Singapore.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- B K Ho
- Department of Psychological Medicine, National University Hospital, Singapore
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
Eagles JM, Naji SA, Gray DA, Christie J, Beattie JA. Seasonal affective disorder among primary care consulters in January: prevalence and month by month consultation patterns. J Affect Disord 1998; 49:1-8. [PMID: 9574854 DOI: 10.1016/s0165-0327(97)00177-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about the prevalence or the consultation patterns of patients with seasonal affective disorder (SAD) in primary care settings. METHODS Patients aged 16-64 years consulting a general practitioner (G.P.) during a three week period in January were screened with the Seasonal Pattern Assessment Questionnaire (SPAQ). Interview-confirmed cases of SAD (N = 33) were matched by age and sex to controls without seasonal morbidity and primary care consultation patterns were compared over a 5 year period. RESULTS Of 692 patients screened, 64 (9.3%) satisfied SPAQ criteria for winter SAD. Patients with SAD showed no winter excess of consultations but were high year round consulters, averaging 1.8 times more consultations than controls. CONCLUSIONS High levels of SAD caseness on the SPAQ were found among patients consulting in primary care during January. Possible explanations for the high non-seasonal consultation patterns among SAD patients include somatisation and diagnostic inaccuracies. LIMITATIONS Diagnostic criteria for SAD, and the SPAQ in particular, may be over-inclusive. The SPAQ completion rate (about 39% of eligible patients consulting a G.P.) was relatively low. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Patients with SAD (using SPAQ criteria) commonly consult their G.P.s in winter but frequency, rather than seasonality, of consultation may be a better guide to diagnosing SAD in primary care.
Collapse
|
41
|
Suhail K, Cochrane R. Seasonal changes in affective state in samples of Asian and white women. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 1997; 32:149-57. [PMID: 9130867 DOI: 10.1007/bf00794614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Seasonality of the affective state has been reported to vary in direct proportion to latitude in temperate regions. The frequency of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and the severity of the symptoms associated with it have been reported to be greater in higher than in lower latitudes. In addition, recent research has suggested a genetic loading for SAD. Most of the research on the seasonality of affect has been done in high latitude areas, seasonal mood cycles have been infrequently investigated in tropical areas, and no study has so far measured and compared seasonal changes in affect and behaviour in indigenous and populations non-indigenous to high latitudes. To rule out the biases associated with retrospective designs, a prospective longitudinal study was designed to investigate seasonal mood variations in indigenous white and non-indigenous Asian populations. Since previous research has indicated the excessive vulnerability of women to winter depression, it was decided to measure seasonality of the affective state only in women. To examine the relative effects of genetic predispositions and physical environment, the Asian group was further divided into "Asian" and "Asian-British". The former group comprised women who were living in England but who had been born and had spent considerably more time in their country of origin, while the latter group consisted of women who were born in England and who had lived there all their lives. The three groups of 25 women each were matched for age and socio-economic status, and were interviewed every month for 1 year using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HAD), a Behavioural Change Inventory (BCI), the Ladder Scale of General Well-being (LSW) and a Monthly Stress Inventory (MSI). One retrospective scale was administered at the end of the study year to compare the extent of seasonal change in affect with that on the HAD-depression subscale. The results showed that seasonal depression peaked in winter in all three groups, with the incidence of winter depression being highest in the Asian group. Seasonal changes on several dimensions of behaviour were in the direction of winter depression for all three groups. States other than depression (anxiety and general well-being) did not show any seasonal variation. Hours of daylight was found to be the best predictor of seasonal variation in mood among environmental and psychosocial variables. There was no evidence to support a genetic hypothesis for SAD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K Suhail
- School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|
42
|
Raheja SK, King EA, Thompson C. The Seasonal Pattern Assessment Questionnaire for identifying seasonal affective disorders. J Affect Disord 1996; 41:193-9. [PMID: 8988451 DOI: 10.1016/s0165-0327(96)00087-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The SPAQ is a widely used tool for identifying possible cases of recurrent major depressive disorders with a seasonal pattern. However, its test-retest reliability, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, efficiency and predictive validity have not previously been formally assessed. Forty-seven subjects who fulfilled the DSMIIIR criteria for a major depressive disorder with a seasonal pattern were traced and re-interviewed after five to eight years. The SPAQ was found to have a positive predictive value of 48% and an efficiency of 57% in identifying cases of SAD confirmed by follow-up. The test-retest reliability was low. There was a mean difference in seasonality score between the first and second test of 3.17 +/- 4.7 (mean +/- 1 S.D.). Although the SPAQ is a rapid method of collecting information about recent seasonal variation, it has low test-retest reliability and on its own is unable to predict the seasonality of the future course of illness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S K Raheja
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Southampton, Royal South Hants Hospital, UK
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
43
|
Abstract
BACKGROUND In patients with bipolar disorder, admissions for manic and depressive episodes frequently display a seasonal pattern. We examined this variation and compared the patterns with the seasonal admission rates for schizophrenia. METHOD Patients with bipolar disorder or schizophrenia were identified from the Finnish Hospital Discharge Register of in-patient admissions to all psychiatric hospitals during the years 1969-91. They were included in the analysis if the first admission had occurred before 30 years of age. A total of 295 bipolar patients were found, and a sample of 295 schizophrenic patients was randomly selected for comparison. RESULTS There was no seasonal variation among all hospital admissions for bipolar disorder or schizophrenia. However, the first admission for a depressive compared with a manic episode of bipolar disorder occurred significantly more often in the autumn (33% v. 21% respectively). The peak difference occurred during the week after the autumnal equinox in September. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that there is no seasonal variation in bipolar disorder, although in some patients the clinical course might be influenced by the autumn, as far as the likelihood of a first admission for depression is concerned.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- T Partonen
- Department of Mental Health, National Public Health Institute, Helsinki, Finland
| | | |
Collapse
|