Disrupted Body Clock Patterns in Bipolar Disorders

Relative circadian phase delay is associated with bipolar spectrum disorders (BSDs), especially during depressive phases.

• Circadian phase delay includes factors such as a later melatonin peak and evening chronotype.
• Irregular social rhythms, sleep/wake patterns, and activity levels are stable trait markers of BSD.
• Disruptions in social rhythms due to life events may indicate vulnerabilities for the onset of BSD.
• Both internal biological clock abnormalities and external disruptions contribute to circadian dysregulation in BSDs.
• Circadian dysregulation may increase the risk of developing BSD.

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