How Insomnia and Depression Are Related

Insomnia,  or the inability to sleep, is a common problem that can have far-reaching consequences. It can be one of the signs of depression (a small percentage of depressed people, approximately 15%, oversleep or sleep too much). Sleep deprivation, on its own, does not cause depression and sleep deprivation as a result of another medical condition or personal concerns may exacerbate it. Furthermore, insomnia that persists for a lengthy period of time is another signal of depression.

There is a complex and intimate relationship between insomnia and depression. As many as 75% of people with major depression also have difficulty sleeping. Depression may be caused by an imbalance of certain chemicals in the brain, and these same chemicals play a role in regulating sleep. When someone is depressed, they may not be able to fall asleep as easily or stay asleep as long. When they do sleep, they may have distressing dreams or nightmares.

People with insomnia are also at increased risk for developing depression. In fact, research has found that people with insomnia are five times more likely to develop depression than those who don’t have difficulty sleeping. The link between insomnia and depression may be due to a vicious cycle. Depression can lead to insomnia, and insomnia can worsen the symptoms of depression.

What are Common Depression Symptoms?

There are a number of different depression symptoms. Some people may only experience a few, while others will have many. The severity of these symptoms also varies from person to person. Common symptoms of depression include:

•         Feeling sad, empty, or hopeless
•         Loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyed
•         Sleeping too little or too much
•         Changes in appetite, resulting in weight loss or gain
•         Lack of energy or fatigue
•         Restlessness or irritability
•         Feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or hopelessness
•         Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or remembering things
•         Thoughts of death or suicide

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to reach out for help. Depression is a treatable condition, and there are a number of different treatment options available. One treatment option that we provide is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). TMS is a non-invasive, FDA cleared treatment for depression that has been proven to be an effective treatment option for those who have not responded to traditional treatments such as medication and therapy.

If you are struggling with depression, we encourage you to reach out to us. Don't struggle with insomnia and depression any longer, contact us today to schedule a consultation.