The impact of social distancing on biological rhythms and mental health: a study of the effectiveness of interventions in biological rhythms and sleep

Under the conditions of social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic, most individuals are experiencing a major shift in daily routines. For some, having a flexible work schedule may be beneficial to their natural bodily rhythms. For others, the lack of structure that was previously provided by an external schedule may impose misalignment on behavioural circadian cues, such as eating and sleeping schedules, physical activity, and social interactions. Therefore, there is a need to understand how social distancing has impacted circadian rhythmicity and mental health, and if adhering to recommendations focused on maintaining circadian organization improves mental health outcomes. These are the primary aims of the study. Specifically, the student will assess daily variability in affective, cognitive, and somatic symptoms and their relationships to scores of anxiety and depression. The current project examines the effects of social distancing one year after the emergence of COVID-19 restrictions, and is complementary to a similar project that was launched at the start of the pandemic.

Faculty Supervisor:

Benicio N. Frey

Student:

Partner:

Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Health and Related Sciences & Technology; Other

University:

McMaster University

Program: