Can chronotype function as predictor of a persistent course of depressive and anxiety disorder?

Depressive and anxiety disorders are highly prevalent in Western societies (Hirschfeld, 2001). Their courses are often of a chronic or recurrent nature. They cause an enormous burden to patients, to those close to them and involve high societal costs (Creed et al., 2002; Penninx et al., 2011). A disturbed timing of the circadian rhythm is found in patients suffering from these disorders (Wirz-Justice, 2006). Circadian rhythmicity is controlled by the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), an area of the brain located in the hypothalamus (Roenneberg et al., 2007).
Source: Journal of Affective Disorders - Category: Neurology Authors: Tags: Aiming at: Journal of Affective Disorders Source Type: research