Seasonality, Chronotype, Impulsivity, and Suicidality in Mood Disorder Patients

This study aims to investigate the association between seasonality, chronotype, impulsivity, and suicidal thoughts in patients diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder-I and Unipolar Depression, who sought treatment at Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry. Within the scope of this study, the seasonal variation of suicidal thoughts observed in patients with Bipolar Disorder and Unipolar Depression will be examined, along with the trajectory of impulsivity and suicidal thoughts in patients with higher seasonality. The study also aims to identify seasonal and chronotype factors that contribute to the development of impulsivity and suicidal thoughts. Ultimately, the research aims to facilitate early guidance and intervention for treatment purposes. After providing information about the purpose and methodology of the study and obtaining informed consent, eligible participants will complete several assessment tools under the guidance of a clinician, including Socio-demographic and Clinical Characteristics Data Form, Seasonal Pattern Assessment Form, Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire, Barratt Impulsivity Scale, and Beck Suicide Scale. The clinicians will also fill out the Structured Interview Guide for the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale-Seasonal Affective Disorder Version (SIGH-SAD) and Young Mania Rating Scale and/or Hypomania Checklist for patients with a diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder-I. Follow-up interviews will be conducted with each patient at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months, and the assessments will be repeated during these interviews. Participants will be categorized based on the presence of seasonality and chronotypes. Correlation coefficients and appropriate statistical methods will be used to evaluate the relationship between seasonality, impulsivity, suicidality, and chronotype. The study is designed to gain insights into the seasonal characteristics and psychopathology related to suicidal thoughts in patients with Bipolar Disorder and Unipolar Depression. The results will be used to identify risk factors and facilitate early interventions in psychiatric clinics.