The effect of seasonality on mood in bipolar disorder

Abstract

Bipolar Disorder is a mental health condition that effects changes in mood and behaviour, characterized with mood swings of depression and mania. Different seasons and weather changes are said to affect the mood of people with bipolar disorder. Therefore, the following research question was developed: “How does weather and seasonal changes affect the mood of people with bipolar disorder?”. The PEO framework was used to conduct this project in relation to the effects of seasonal changes on the mood of people with bipolar disorder. The inclusion criteria consists of studies written in the English language which were published within the last 10 years. Additionally, the studies had to include participants that were diagnosed with bipolar disorder, focusing on the effect of seasonal and weather changes on them. The articles had to be peer-reviewed and were not restricted to any geographical region. The exclusion criteria eliminated studies that focused on the effect of weather and seasonal changes on people with different disorders, also non-peer-reviewed studies which were published before 2011 and were not in English. The overall search process retrieved one systematic review, four cohort studies, and two case control studies. The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) was used to appraise and critique these studies. The results showed that different weather and seasons do have an effect on the mood of people with bipolar disorder, as well as on their daily lives and routines. All studies were consistent in showing that people with bipolar disorder II and the female population are at a higher risk of mood changes due to seasons. More research on this subject is required, especially locally, to enhance practice and education while also improving policy making.