Evidence for Internal Misalignment of Circadian Rhythms in Youth With Emerging Mood Disorders.

ABSTRACT: Despite evidence for links between circadian dysfunction and mood disorders, previous research has largely reported on single biological markers of circadian alignment. The available evidence on relationships between 2 internal phase markers (e.g., dim light melatonin onset [DLMO] and peak cortisol concentration) suggests these signals may be temporally misaligned in major depressive disorder with greater misalignment associated with more severe depressive symptoms. This study aimed to examine multiple circadian phase markers to determine whether any youth with emerging mood disorders present with clear evidence of internal circadian misalignment, and whether the degree of circadian misalignment is correlated with more severe mood symptoms. Cross-sectional data from 69 youth presenting for

SUBMITTER: Carpenter JS 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12426331 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature