Higher levels of cortisol present in children with parents who have mood disorders

Recent research by the Concordia University suggests that stress during childhood can double the risk of developing a serious mood disorder in early adulthood, reports the Montreal Gazette.

The study measured the levels of cortisol in the saliva of children who live with at least one parent with a mood disorder. Results showed that teens with at-risk families have higher levels of the hormone that can persist into adulthood.

Cortisol is present when your body is faced with situations that are difficult to face or challenging beyond the ability of some teens to cope. Furthermore, cortisol is secreted in excessive amounts during depression. However, researchers say they do not know whether depression causes higher levels of cortisol or increased amounts of the hormone result in depression.

Experts told the news source that children adapt to the increased stress by producing high levels of cortisol which can cause inconsistent eating and sleeping habits.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly 21 million individuals in U.S. suffer from mood disorders ranging from major depressive disorder to bipolar disorder.