Bipolar Disorder and Climatic Factors

Abstract

Introduction: Climate change is a global phenomenon that affects various aspects of our lives, from the environment to our physical health. However, its impact on mental health, particularly on conditions like bipolar disorder, has gained increasing attention in recent years and several studies have suggested a correlation between seasonal changes and the nature of episodes during relapses. Methods: This is a descriptive retrospective study of a sample of 100 Tunisian patients with bipolar disorder type I to investigate the influence of climatic factors on the evolutionary profile of bipolar disorder in order to determine the distribution of depressive and manic episodes based on the season of relapses. A pre-established form containing socio-demographic and clinical data was completed. All patients gave oral consent. Results: The findings indicate a tendency for manic relapses during spring-summer and depressive episodes during autumn-winter. This observation is supported by the monthly distribution of relapses, showing a prevalence of manic relapses during warm months and depressive episodes during cold months. Over a period of ten years, the analysis of 230 thymic episodes confirms this trend, highlighting the prevalence of manic episodes during hot season and depressive episodes during cold season. Discussion: Despite the limitations of this study, such as sample size, the results suggest a potential seasonal influence on the evolutionary profile of bipolar disorder type I. Our results are conform to literature. Conclusion: Climate changes have been very marked in last years and their consequences on mental health are becoming increasingly known. Taking this into account could contribute to the development of a more appropriate and targeted care for patients suffering from psychiatric disorders, and in particular in the case of bipolar disorder.