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Circadian Rhythms in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: Recent Findings and Recommendations for Future Research

  • Sleep Disorders (P Gehrman, Section Editor)
  • Published:
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

Circadian rhythms are a topic of growing interest in mental health, particularly in obsessive-compulsive disorder. However, the consistency of this link has not been carefully examined. Thus, the present review integrates findings from the past 5 years in order to determine the strength of such a relationship and identify areas for clarification and extension.

Recent Findings

Findings revealed inconsistent evidence for a link between circadian rhythms and OCD. Chronotype is unrelated to OCD symptoms in adolescents but predicts OCD symptoms in adults. Results on delayed sleep timing are equivocal. Circadian rhythm disorders predict OCD treatment outcome. Preliminary evidence implicates decreased light exposure and diurnal symptom variability in OCD.

Summary

The relationship between circadian rhythms and OCD may vary by age, diagnostic status, and assessment method. Recent findings are limited by an overreliance on convenience samples and singular self-report methods. Recommendations for future research on the role of circadian rhythms in OCD are discussed.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Psychology, Vanderbilt University, 301 Wilson Hall, 111 21st Avenue South, Nashville, TN, 37240, USA

    Rebecca C. Cox & Bunmi O. Olatunji

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  1. Rebecca C. Cox
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  2. Bunmi O. Olatunji
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Correspondence to Rebecca C. Cox.

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Cox, R.C., Olatunji, B.O. Circadian Rhythms in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: Recent Findings and Recommendations for Future Research. Curr Psychiatry Rep 21, 54 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11920-019-1033-0

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