Sleep Disorders and Depression

A depressive disorder is an illness that involves the body, mood, and thoughts. It can affect the way you sleep.

A depressive disorder is not the same as a passing blue mood. It is not a sign of personal weakness or a condition that can be willed or wished away.

People with a depressive illness cannot merely "pull themselves together" and get better. Without treatment, symptoms such as sleeplessness can last for weeks, months, or years. Appropriate treatment, however, can help most people who suffer from depression.

Depression often accompanies anxiety disorders and, when it does, it needs to be treated as well.

Symptoms of Depression and Mania

Not everyone who is depressed or manic experiences every symptom. Some people experience a few symptoms, some many. Severity of symptoms varies with individuals and also varies over time.

Depression

• Persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" mood

• Feelings of hopelessness, pessimism

• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness

• Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities that were once enjoyed, including sex

• Decreased energy, fatigue, being "slowed down"

• Difficulty concentrating, remembering, making decisions

• Insomnia, early-morning awakening, or oversleeping

• Appetite and/or weight loss or overeating and weight gain

• Thoughts of death or suicide; suicide attempts

• Restlessness, irritability

• Persistent physical symptoms that do not respond to treatment, such as headaches, digestive disorders, and chronic pain

Mania

• Abnormal or excessive elation

• Unusual irritability

• Decreased need for sleep

• Grandiose notions

• Increased talking

• Racing thoughts

• Increased sexual desire

• Markedly increased energy

• Poor judgment

• Inappropriate social behavior

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, they might be the root of your sleep disorder. As always, check with your doctor for information and a diagnosis.