Depression and Sleep Apnea

Dr. Mark Weiser – Serving Santa Barbara, Los Angeles, and the Entire LA Region

Are Depression And A Lack Of Sleep Related?

People who suffer from a sleep disorder are more likely to develop depression.

We’ve all been there at some point. Feeling out of sorts, down in the dumps, not wanting to get out of bed. These feelings are normal, but if they last more than a couple of weeks, they can be a predictor of depression. Depression occurs when these feelings last for a prolonged period of time and stop you from leading a normal life.

A lack of sleep can cause depression to worsen, although it doesn’t usually cause it. When you’re depressed, it’s hard to keep up your daily routine and fatigue can make it even harder to face the day.

Research shows a direct correlation between sleep problems and depression. If you have a sleep disorder, you’re more likely to develop depression or depression-like symptoms at some point. The more severe the sleep deprivation, the higher the risk of depression. Studies indicate that depressed people are five times more likely to have a sleep disorder related to breathing problems.

Antidepressants can cause or worsen sleep disorders.

When depression sets in, antidepressants are often prescribed. We all know they can alter and lift a person’s mood. Some antidepressants can also induce or magnify sleep disorders. One of these disorders– REM behavior disorder – causes people, while sleeping, to act out their violent dreams.

Physicians are noticing this trend in young patients who are relying more on medication to treat depression. There are a number of side affects associated with antidepressants.

Let us know about your sleep problems – fill out our ’Sleep Disorder Evaluation Form‘

If you suffer from depression and you’re a chronic snorer or have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, contact Dr. Mark T. Weiser today at (805) 754.3653 for the Santa Barbara location or (310) 237.6620 for the Los Angeles location.

Effects of Sleep Apnea and Snoring