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Seasons and bipolar disorder
D A D'Mello1, J A McNeil, B Msibi
1Department of Psychiatry, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48823, USA.
Summary
Bipolar disorder hospitalizations show seasonal patterns, peaking in spring for men and spring/fall for women. Aggressive behavior also peaks in spring, suggesting seasonality influences mood disorders.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Chronobiology
- Mood Disorders
Background:
- Bipolar disorder is a complex mood disorder with potential links to environmental factors.
- Previous research suggests seasonal variations may influence the course of bipolar disorder.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate seasonal variations in bipolar disorder patient hospitalizations.
- To analyze the relationship between seasons and specific clinical parameters including aggressive behavior and lithium treatment.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 377 inpatient bipolar disorder patient records over a 6-year period.
- Examination of seasonal trends in admission rates, sleep, thyroid stimulating hormone, creatinine, lithium levels, and aggressive behavior.
Main Results:
- Hospital admission rates for men peaked in spring; women showed bimodal peaks in spring and fall.
- Aggressive behavior significantly increased in spring for both sexes (p < 0.05).
- Men on lithium therapy exhibited higher serum lithium levels during summer months.
Conclusions:
- Seasonal variations significantly impact bipolar disorder, affecting admission rates and aggressive behavior.
- Findings support the influence of seasons on mood disorder presentation and lithium pharmacokinetics.
- Therapeutic strategies may need to consider seasonal patterns for optimal bipolar disorder management.
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