While technically not a separate diagnosis fromclinical depression, diurnal mood variation is sometimes referred to as morning depression.
Unlike people who do not have depression, they may feel that they are unable to control the changes.
Studies have shown that people who dont have depression may also experience similar fluctuations in mood.
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However, they usually report these fluctuations are in response to certain situations or influences.
One theory is that the variations occur in response to circadian rhythms.
Even people who don’t have a mood disorder can experiencesleep troublebased on changes in their circadian rhythm.
Therefore, it makes sense that these irregularities could contribute to symptoms of depression.
These factors can also influence other depressive disorders such as SAD.
Diagnosis of Diurnal Variation in Mood
Diurnal mood variation doesnt have its own specific diagnostic criteria.
People who experience it are usually diagnosed with major depression or a similar condition.
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In either case,phototherapymay also help people with morning depression.
Light therapy is used to treat an array of medical and mental health conditions.
These include bipolar disorder,schizoaffective disorder,premenstrual syndrome(PMS), and sleep disorders like insomnia.
Medications & Supplements
There are several differentclasses of antidepressant medicationsthat can be prescribed for depression.
Research has suggested that some medications may be more effective at addressing morning depression than others.
Melatonin is a hormone that helps regulate your body’s circadian rhythm.
However, as of 2019 agomelatine is not available in the United States.
The drug is available in the United Kingdom where it is sold under the brand name Valdoxian.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
Together with your doctor, it’s possible for you to find what works best for you.
Find out which option is the best for you.
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