Self-reported health in adolescent girls varies according to the season and its relation to medication and hormonal contraception – A descriptive study

Abstract

Objectives To study seasonal variations in self-rated health and depressive symptoms in adolescent girls and possible differences in reported health with regard to use of medications.

Method The SF-36 questionnaire was completed by 1250 girls with a mean age of 17 years, who visited a health centre in the course of one year. From January to July inclusive, depressive symptoms in 453 of the participants were also assessed using MADRS-S. Age and regular medication data were recorded.

Results Significantly better mental health and less depressive symptoms were reported during the summer, than in winter months. Seasonality was more related to the SF-36 mental, than physical health subscales. Respondents treated with hormonal contraceptives (HCs) only and those not taking any medication scored better on several SF-36 subscales, than girls on antidepressives and other medications. Respondents taking HCs tended to report better physical health and less depressive symptoms on MADRS-S than those taking no medication.

Conclusions Adolescent girls showed seasonal variations in self-reported health and depressive symptoms, with more symptoms during winter months. HC users tended to report better physical health and less depressive symptoms than those on no medication. The high prevalence of suspected depression during the winter months deserves attention.

Keywords:

• Adolescence
• Depression
• Mental health
• Contraception
• Quality of life

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and the writing of the paper.