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TFASS
Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at 12:00 pm
Xiaoyan Wu, Ph.D.
Associate Professor, Department of Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health in Anhui Medical University
Topic: Sleep, Circadian Rhythm Disruption, and Mental Health in Adolescents
Adolescents are particularly vulnerable to circadian rhythm disturbances and sleep problems due to delayed circadian phase, social pressures, and societal obligations. Sleep and circadian rhythm disruptions have been linked to a range of adverse health outcomes, including mental health problems. These health risks are especially pronounced during adolescence and early adulthood, a critical period for both physical and psychological development. However, there is a lack of prospective studies examining the relationship between sleep and circadian disruptions and mental health problems in young adults, and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In this presentation, I will share research findings from a cohort study that explores (1) the associations between sleep and circadian rhythm disturbances and mental health outcomes, particularly symptoms of depression and anxiety; (2) the potential role of clock gene methylation in mediating the relationship between sleep, circadian rhythm disruptions and depression.