Behavioural chronotherapies, zeitgebers and mood: An investigation of the open circadian system in mental health

There is renewed interest in the role of chronobiology in human health. Comprising five work packages, this project advanced research into interventions targeting the circadian system (i.e., chronotherapy). Findings offer new insights into the promising role of chronotherapy in the treatment of mood problems in mental health; empirical support for a fundamental hypothesis underpinning chronotherapies and the importance of incorporating lived experience perspectives when developing and/or refining future interventions. Further, a conceptual framework for explaining and intervening mood phenomena in mental health is proposed. Key knowledge gaps are highlighted and a research agenda to propel investigations into chronotherapy is outlined.