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Seasonality in affective disorders in Switzerland
A Wirz-Justice1, P Graw, K Kräuchi
1Centre for Chronobiology, Psychiatric University Clinic and Outpatient Clinic, Basel, Switzerland.
Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica. Supplementum
|September 6, 2003
Summary
This study found that 2.2% of the Swiss population experiences Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), with 8.9% having subsyndromal SAD (S-SAD). Prevalence was higher in Basel, indicating geographic variations in these mood disorders.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Epidemiology
- Chronobiology
Background:
- Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and its subsyndromal form (S-SAD) are mood disorders linked to seasonal changes.
- Estimating their prevalence is crucial for understanding public health impact, especially in regions at higher latitudes like Switzerland.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of SAD and S-SAD in Switzerland.
- To investigate potential variations in prevalence across different regions and patient groups.
Main Methods:
- A representative sample of 980 individuals across Switzerland underwent structured telephone interviews using the extended Seasonal Pattern Assessment Questionnaire (SPAQ+).
- A smaller, representative sample in Basel completed the SPAQ+ and a structured diagnostic interview.
Main Results:
- The study identified a 2.2% prevalence of SAD and an 8.9% prevalence of S-SAD in the Swiss sample.
- A significantly higher prevalence of SAD was observed in Basel.
- Seasonal mood problems were more common in individuals with major affective disorders compared to anxiety disorders or no psychiatric diagnosis.
Conclusions:
- The estimated prevalence of SAD in Switzerland aligns with previous studies conducted using different methodologies and in other populations like the UK.
- These findings highlight the public health relevance of SAD and S-SAD in Switzerland.
- Further research may be needed to explore the specific factors contributing to higher prevalence rates in certain areas and patient groups.