Birth Month and Suicidal and Depressive Symptoms in Australians Born in the Southern vs. the Northern Hemisphere

The authors tested whether Australians in utero during the Southern hemisphere flu peak would show increased suicidal & depressive symptoms, as would those born in the Northern hemisphere & who were in utero during the Northern hemisphere flu peak. 2514 adolescents & young adults completed measures of depressive & suicidal symptoms. Those born in the Southern hemisphere in September-November showed the highest suicidal & depressive symptoms, as did those born in the Northern hemisphere in March-May. The authors suggest that season of birth may be a risk factor for suicidal symptoms. (10 refs)