How social and body clock changes affect depression during menopause
Official title: Investigation of Social and Circadian Rhythm Dysregulation in the Development of Depression Symptoms During the Menopause Transition
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10665761 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how social interactions and daily rhythms affect mood in women going through menopause, whether or not they have depression, to help find better ways to support their mental health during this time.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | July 15, 2022 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $203,125 |
| NIH project number | 5R21MH130642-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10665761 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are women in the perimenopausal stage, particularly those experiencing symptoms of depression.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not in the menopausal transition or who do not experience depressive symptoms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how changes in social interactions and circadian rhythms contribute to depression symptoms in women going through menopause. It aims to understand the relationship between hormonal fluctuations and environmental factors that may influence mood during this transition. The study will involve women both with and without significant depression symptoms, using interviews and self-report measures to gather data on their experiences and daily routines. By exploring these connections, the research seeks to inform better prevention and management strategies for depression during menopause.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing and managing depression in women undergoing menopause.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated a link between circadian rhythm disruptions and depression, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kornfield, Sara L. — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Kornfield, Sara L.
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.