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Survey study, 2006

Are seasonal mood changes linked to premenstrual symptoms?

Yes, there is a strong connection between seasonal mood symptoms and premenstrual symptoms (r = .45), even in women without seasonal affective disorder. This connection is only partly explained by depression.

Early or limited evidence 91 female college students

What they did

Cross-sectional survey of 91 female college students about their seasonal mood changes, premenstrual symptoms, and depression severity.

What they found

Seasonal and premenstrual symptoms were strongly correlated (r = .45, p < 0.001). This correlation remained significant even when depression was statistically controlled for, though it was reduced in strength.

What it means for you

Seasonal mood changes and premenstrual symptoms are linked, but the connection is not fully explained by depression. The study was limited to college students, so the findings may not apply to all women.

r = .45

Correlation between seasonal and premenstrual symptoms

p < 0.001

Statistical significance

About the study

Original title
The association between seasonal and premenstrual symptoms is continuous and is not fully accounted for by depressive symptoms
Authors
Portella AT, Haaga DA, Rohan KJ
Journal
The Journal of nervous and mental disease
Year
2006
Study design
Survey study
Participants
91
What was tested
None - observational study

Topics