Night Owls May Be More Prone to a Specific Type of Depression
Researchers at the University of Sydney's Brain and Mind Centre have discovered a potential link between being a night owl and a specific subtype of depression. The study, published in the British Journal of Psychiatry, analyzed data from the Australian Genetics of Depression Study and found that individuals with the proposed circadian subtype of depression tend to develop the condition earlier, experience more severe symptoms, and have a poorer response to common antidepressants.
According to the study, hallmarks of the proposed circadian depression include being a night owl, waking up feeling exhausted, and experiencing a lack of energy in the morning. While being a night owl does not necessarily mean someone has circadian depression, researchers suggest that tracking sleep-wake cycles using a wearable device or sleep diary may help identify individuals who could benefit from this new information in their treatment plan.
Experts recommend establishing a consistent sleep schedule, getting bright sunlight soon after waking, and spending time outside during the day to help regulate the body's internal clock. By understanding the potential link between sleep patterns and depression, individuals can take proactive steps to manage their mental health and work with their clinicians to develop a more effective treatment plan.
