Depression and Insomnia

Depression and sleep problems are often inextricably linked. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to help get sleeping back on track. Insomnia, an inability to fall asleep or stay asleep, is common among depression sufferers, while a smaller percentage of people with depression tend to sleep excessively. Studies also suggest that people with insomnia are at a high risk for developing a depressive disorder. It's estimated that more than 80 percent of people with depression have problems sleeping or suffer from ongoing insomnia. And, as with other depressive disorders, insomnia occurs more often in women than in men. When insomnia occurs, it may interfere with deep sleep, during which the body realizes valuable restorative emotional and physical benefits. Equally vital is rapid eye movement sleep (REM) sleep, which is associated with processing emotions and relieving stress. In contrast, depression sufferers typically find themselves preoccupied with negative thoughts, which tends to exacerbate their insomnia. And lying awake all night dwelling on problems often makes matters worse. Recovery from depression, however, may be dependent on addressing sleep problems. And the first step is talking with a doctor about your insomnia. You should also have a thorough physical exam to rule out any medical illness that may be causing your symptoms. One reason it's important to discuss sleeping problems with your doctor or mental health professional is that many depression medications, including serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs, like Paxil and Prozac, may result in sleep problems. Another reason is that sleep disorders may complicate depression treatment. For example, many mental health professionals prefer to treat depression and insomnia with an SSRI, along with a sedating antidepressant. However, people with both depression and obstructive sleep apnea symptoms need to avoid sedating antidepressants. An additional type of medication that's prescribed for people with insomnia includes the class of drugs known as hypnotics, which includes Ambien, Sonata and Restoril. However, these drugs are typically recommended only for short-term use. The good news is that depression treatment typically involves a combination of medication AND psychotherapy that includes cognitive-behavioral therapy. And cognitive-behavioral therapy also shows up to an 80 percent success rate in helping insomnia sufferers. In addition to medication, experts say sleep may be improved through meditation, yoga, relaxation or deep-breathing techniques, and as well by regular exercise as long as it's well before bedtime. Other sleep-inducing tips include: eliminating caffeine, alcohol or nicotine during evening hours; a warm shower before bedtime; using your bedroom only for sleeping or sexual activity keeping your bedroom at a cool temperature; using a white noise machine, black-out shades, earplugs or sleep mask. If you're suffering from depression and insomnia, it's important to know that both are treatable. Please see your doctor or mental health professional for help.

Nearly 19 million Americans are affected by depression each year and only about half receive treatment. Untreated depression, however, can have serious consequences! Depression is a serious medical illness in which a person experiences persistent sadness, hopelessness and lack of interest in normal activities for more than two weeks. Without treatment, it may last for months or even years, interfering with physical health, relationships, work and finances. Its not uncommon for people to be unable to recognize their own depression or depression in loved ones, often finding a number of ways to justify why they dont need help. Similarly, parents often miss the signs of depression in their children because they may not realize that young children or teens CAN have a depressive disorder. When depression goes untreated, the risk for substance abuse increases as well, ESPECIALLY among teens and young males. Using drugs or alcohol also increases the risk of suicide. Untreated depression is the NUMBER ONE risk for suicide among young people. Studies also suggest that suicide is the third leading cause of death in 15- to 24-year -olds, with young males ages 15 to 24 at highest risk. Researchers also believe that people suffering from clinical depression may be more likely to have a heart attack than those without a history of depression, and may also have a more difficult time recovering from serious illness, such as heart disease or stroke. Untreated depression during pregnancy may increase the risk of an underweight or premature infant, and can compromise the mothers ability to nurture her baby. This may lead to long-term developmental and behavioral problems in the infant and also affect the well-being of siblings. The good news is that more than 80 percent of people suffering from depression can be treated successfully. If you, or someone you know, are experiencing depression symptoms that have persisted beyond a couple of weeks, its important to see a doctor or mental health professional as soon as possible.

It's often said that the brain is the body's largest sexual organ. So it's not surprising that many people who suffer from depression, which typically involves an imbalance in brain chemicals, may also experience sexual problems. When a person suffers from depression, it often affects their ability to enjoy everyday activities, including sex. This is because sexual desire ACTUALLY begins in the brain. As a result, when any type of mood disorder is present, sexual functioning may be affected as well. It's also believed that low levels of brain chemicals, called neurotransmitters, may dull pleasurable feelings, while also interfering with sexual response and performance. It's estimated that up to 45 percent of men and women who suffer from some form of depression may also experience sexual problems, ranging from decreased sexual desire and inability to enjoy sex, to erectile dysfunction or being unable to reach orgasm. Often, in addition to the impact the depressive illness may have on a person's sex life, many antidepressant medications - in particular, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors or SSRIs such as Zoloft, Paxil and Prozac - may ALSO interfere with sexual function. If you're experiencing sexual problems you believe are associated with your antidepressant, talk to your doctor about medication options that may cause fewer sexual side effects, such as Wellbutrin, Remeron or Serzone. Sexual problems associated with depression can often put considerable strain on a couple's relationship, which can, in turn, augment depressive feelings. Experts suggest that people suffering from depression can help maintain closeness through touching and cuddling, as well as by talking openly with their partner about what they're experiencing. Fortunately, both the symptoms of depression and side effects of medication are treatable. If you're experiencing sexual problems, talk to your doctor.

Nearly 19 million Americans annually are affected by depressive disorders. In addition to depression's often-disabling symptoms, it may also lead to other complications that impact virtually every aspect of your life. Depression is typically characterized by persistent sadness, low energy and loss of interest in activities once enjoyed. People with depression are also at risk for a number of serious complications that may result in physical problems, financial troubles, relationship issues or even, in more serious cases, suicide. Often, the apathy, lethargy and difficulty concentrating that typically accompany depressive illness may cause sufferers to be incapable of meeting their day-to-day responsibilities, leading to work or school absences, overlooked bills, arguments at home, and even job loss. Insomnia is characteristic of many forms of depression and being unable to meet the body's need for restorative sleep may lead to a number of complications, including slowed reactions when driving, a compromised immune system and heightened risks for high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes. Experts also believe depression not only increases the risk of heart disease, but may AMPLIFY the severity of existing cardiac conditions as well. It's also thought that depression changes in bone mass may be accelerated by depression, leading to osteoporosis. People with depression may also experience multiple unexplained physical symptoms including stomach aches, migraines, aching muscles, and severe back or abdominal pain. Research suggests this is because mood and pain use the same pathways in the brain and are controlled by the same chemical messengers. It's also believed that reduced levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters, especially serotonin, and to a lesser degree, norepinephrine, may prompt stress-related responses in the body that can lead to inflammation and changes in blood clotting, as well as cell and organ damage. Depression sufferers may turn to drugs or alcohol in order to feel better, but this ultimately creates more problems in the long run. In addition, people who are taking antidepressants to treat their depression may be at risk for side effects, such as dizziness, weight gain or loss, tremors, sweating, sleepiness or insomnia, fatigue, or headaches. Another complication is the impact depression may have on a person's sex life, as depression tends to reduce both the sex drive and the ability to enjoy sex. In addition, the side effects of antidepressant medications often include reduced libido and sexual dysfunction. Depression also complicates relationships. Sufferers who are struggling with depression symptoms may be unable to consider the needs of others. At the same time, family members, friends and coworkers may feel hurt and rejected. Often, survival of even the most secure relationships is threatened. Parental depression also takes its toll on children. Depressed mothers may be less attentive to prenatal care or an infant's needs. Having a depressed parent is also linked to reduced social skills and self-esteem, increased stress and vulnerability for depression in children. Suicidal thoughts and behaviors are common in many types of depression. Depression sufferers have up to a 15 percent risk for suicide. If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, it's imperative to call 911 or a suicide hotline. Fortunately depression can be treated successfully and these complications may be avoided. If you or someone you know is suffering from depression, see your doctor or a mental health professional.

Nearly 19 million Americans are affected by depression annually, so if you have a loved one suffering from depression, you're not alone. Here are some ways you can help. One of the most important ways you can help your loved one is to become familiar with the symptoms of depression, which is a serious mental illness. People who suffer from depression typically experience feelings of intense sadness, hopelessness and a profound sense of emptiness. It's not uncommon for people suffering from depression to be reluctant or embarrassed to seek help. Showing the depressed person information about depression symptoms and the help that's available may help them recognize they need professional support. Experts advise, however, that caregivers shouldn't attempt to be a therapist to their loved one. Instead, they say it's much more important to always be willing to listen, and ensure the depressed person visits a health care professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan. Ensuring your loved one gets professional help and complies with treatment directions can feel like a tremendous responsibility, especially when they're angry or hostile, as is often the case with depression. If possible, enlist family members and friends to help support your depressed loved one. It's also important to know the warning signs of suicide, which is a very real risk of depression. When a person is depressed, they may not actually want to die, but may simply feel like suicide is the only way to end their pain. Signs that a person may be contemplating suicide include: preoccupation with death or dying; talking or joking about suicide; giving away prized possessions; stockpiling pills or buying a gun; and calling people to say goodbye. Unfortunately, people suffering from depression often attempt to "self-medicate" with alcohol or drugs, which can impair judgment, heighten impulsivity and increase the risk of suicide. If you believe your loved one may be suicidal, call 911, a suicide crisis hotline or the person's therapist. Never leave a potentially suicidal person alone! It's vital that your loved one adheres to a regular treatment schedule. Remind them that it may take time for depression symptoms to improve but people do get better! In the meantime, help your loved one feel connected by maintaining normal activities. For example, you might suggest taking the dog for a walk, going to a movie or having dinner at a favorite restaurant. Experts recommend that you don't try to do everything for the depressed person. But do find ways to avoid aggravating the self-image of a depressed loved one who may be neglecting household chores or self-care. You might suggest a visit to the hairdresser, or put together a schedule for bills or grocery shopping, which may also help your depressed loved one feel more in control. If you have a loved one who's suffering from depression, your encouragement and support can be key to their recovery. To learn more, see additional videos about depression on this site.

When a loved one suffers from depression, the demands may be overwhelming, causing you stress, frustration, and exhaustion. But your loved one's depression doesn't have to take over your life! Understanding depression is essential to coping with your loved one's illness. People who are depressed typically experience feelings of intense sadness, hopelessness and a profound sense of emptiness. A depressed person may be withdrawn, irritable or even hostile. But it's not personal. It's the illness. It's also important to recognize that depression isn't something a person can just "snap out of." Researchers believe that many people suffering from depression may have reduced levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters, especially serotonin, which helps regulate mood and emotions. Personality, temperament, life experiences and family history are also thought to play a role in depression. Admittedly, caring for a depressed loved one can be challenging. A person who is struggling with depression may be unable to be sensitive to the needs of others. As a result you may feel discouraged, manipulated or that nothing you do is ever right. Try to be realistic about your ability to help your loved one. You can provide support, encourage the depressed person to visit a health care professional and to follow the prescribed treatment plan. But don't feel guilty about aspects of the illness beyond your control. Don't sacrifice your own physical and emotional needs. Taking care of yourself will help you AND your loved one in the long run. Try to eat healthy foods, get plenty of sleep and exercise, and be sure to make time for activities you enjoy. Looking out for your own needs includes creating a dependable support network. Enlist family and friends to help you in supporting and caring for your depressed loved one. Consider joining a caregiver support group in your community, where you can feel comfortable discussing your feelings and the unique challenges of care-giving with others in similar situations. It may also be helpful to practice stress-reduction exercises, such as meditation, guided imagery, yoga, tai chi or qi gong. Check locally for classes, or purchase a video so you can learn and practice these techniques at home. Unfortunately, it's not uncommon for caregivers to ALSO suffer from depression. If, despite your best efforts to be optimistic, you find yourself experiencing changes in appetite or sleeping, fatigue or loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed, DON'T HESITATE TO SEEK COUNSELING FOR YOURSELF! The good news it that 80 percent of people who suffer from depression get better with proper treatment and most people begin to show improvement within a few months of starting treatment. If you're caring for a loved one who's suffering from depression, be sure to make time to care for yourself.

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Depression can be treated effectively with both therapy and antidepressants, but it is important to rule out organic causes, like viral infection, before commencing treatment. The first treatment step is an evaluation to determine the severity of the depression and to assess contributing factors like genetics and substance abuse. Depending on the outcome of this evaluation, psychotherapy, antidepressants, or a combination of the two may be prescribed as treatment. Because depression is often a neuro-chemical phenomenon, antidepressants can be extremely helpful to many patients. Antidepressants correct imbalances in the levels of neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrine. Most antidepressants fall into one of three categories: selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), tricyclics, or monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Prozac, Paxil, and Wellbutrin are the most commonly prescribed SSRIs, and typically have few side effects. Tricyclics and MAOIs have more side effects than SSRIs, but can be more effective for some patients. However, when someone is taking MAOIs they need to avoid eating cheese, tofu and drinking beer and certain wines. It can take time for antidepressants to become effective-sometimes up to 8 weeks - so it's important to continue taking medications for as long as they are prescribed. Antidepressants aren't habit-forming, but often need to be stopped gradually to give the body time to adjust. It's never a good idea to stop your medication or change the dosage without consulting your doctor. Herbal remedies like St. John's Wort have been used for centuries to treat depression. Research has shown antidepressants to be more effective than St. John's Wort, though it is still considered by some to be effective for treating mild depression. People who do have a mild form of depression may see significant improvement with just psychotherapy. But even when antidepressants are also used, integrating psychotherapy into the treatment can provide lasting benefits. When successful, psychotherapy can actually bring about physical changes in the brain - in other words, effective therapy has a healing power that is emotional, but also actually physical in nature. If you have depression, your doctor will often recommend that you add a regular exercise regiment to your lifestyle as well. Although exercise is not a cure for depression, its psychological and physical benefits can improve your symptoms. Small amounts of activity - just 10 to 15 minutes at a time - have been shown to improve mood. If you need a little push to get started, try scheduling a few sessions with a personal trainer. Depression can be a challenging illness to live with, but there are good treatment options available. If you think that you are suffering from depression, talk to a medical professional. If you are interested in learning more about this topic, check out other videos and sources on this subject.

Depression is a serious mental illness that affects people of all ages and walks of life. A person with depression may experience a range of often disabling emotional and physical symptoms that can interfere with the ability to function normally in everyday life. While the cause of depression is not fully understood, it is generally believed that a number of issues may influence the presence of depression, ranging from low self-esteem, life events and critical illness, as well as genetic, biological and environmental factors. Researchers believe that people suffering from depression may have imbalances in serotonin and norepinephrine, which are neurotransmitters that enable brain cells to communicate. Decreased levels of serotonin and norepinephrine are also believed to cause the irritability, sleep problems and fatigue associated with depression. Depression also appears to run in some families, suggesting that a family history of depression increases the risk for children and siblings in successive generations. People who lack self-confidence, who tend to be overly critical of themselves, who have a generally negative outlook on life, or are unable to cope well with stressful events are also believed to be at risk for depression. Traumatic life events such as a death, job loss or divorce may trigger depression. Even welcome events like graduating, getting married, having a baby or moving into a dream home may lead to depression, often because regular routines are disrupted and new demands emerge. Depression often occurs in conjunction with certain illnesses, such as cancer, Parkinson's disease, heart disease or Alzheimer's disease. Certain medications - like barbiturates, benzodiazepines, beta-blockers and codeine - are associated with depression as well. A history of physical, emotional or sexual abuse may often be a cause of depression later in life. Many famous people, past and present, have suffered from depression including Vincent Van Gogh, Ernest Hemingway, Michelangelo, Mark Twain and Mozart. More recently, celebrities like comedian Jim Carrey, actor Hugh Laurie and actress Brooke Shields, as well as Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling, have talked openly about their bouts with depression, while actor Owen Wilson's depression was made public following his attempted suicide. While the exact cause of depression is not completely understood, depression can be successfully treated in more than 80 percent of people who seek help. If you - or someone you know - is affected by depression, it's important to consult a mental health professional as soon as possible.

Just as there is no single cause of depression, there is not one particular way to prevent it. There are, however, steps you can take to manage anxiety, boost self-esteem and increase resilience to stress that may help you overcome many symptoms of depression. Mental health experts have long advocated exercise as a way to combat, and help prevent, depression. Recent studies show that exercising three to five times a week, for at least 30 minutes, can help reduce depression symptoms. While high-intensity, cardiovascular workouts showed the best results, any type of exercise - like walking, biking, swimming, kickboxing or even gardening - may help to reduce stress and boost self-esteem. Certain foods may also help fight depression, as evidenced by low rates of depression in Scandinavian and Asian counties, which both have diets high in fish. Clinical studies confirm foods rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, including salmon, sardines and tuna, can effectively reduce depression symptoms. Studies also suggest that high levels of B vitamins - folic acid, B2, B6 and B12 - can help battle depression. So a diet high in fruits and vegetables, as well as legumes, nuts and whole grains may be beneficial as well. Keep an eye on carbohydrates, too. They break down into sugar, which can worsen depression symptoms. If you choose to eat carb-rich foods, stick with the good ones, like green vegetables, fruit and nuts - and skip the chips, bagels and cupcakes. In addition to exercise and a healthy diet, it can also be beneficial to make time for activities YOU enjoy, whether you're writing in a journal, playing the piano, seeing a movie with friends, practicing free throws or spending quality time on the putting green. Many people find mind-body techniques valuable in helping conquer depression. Practicing meditation, yoga, Tai Chi or guided imagery has a positive impact on physiological processes, which may help improve relaxation, emotions, energy and concentration. Research suggests acupuncture may be another viable way to reduce or prevent symptoms of depression. By stimulating the body's central nervous system, acupuncture increases production of mood-enhancing endorphins. And don't forget to stay connected with the people you care about - and who make you feel good about yourself. There are many ways you can take charge of depression and help reduce or prevent its symptoms. If you - or someone you know - suffers from depression, please consult a mental health professional.

A number of factors can increase the risk for depression, a serious mental illness that can affect anyone, at any time of life. Risks include gender, a person's ability to cope with stress, the presence of certain medical conditions or loss of a loved one. Evidence suggests that genetics play a role in depression. While there is not a specific gene that causes depression, a family history of depression suggests that other family members may be at risk for experiencing depression during their lifetime. Gender is a risk factor as well. Women are twice as likely to suffer from depression than men, which many experts attribute - in part - to hormonal influences on the brain chemistry that regulates mood and emotions, as well as balancing work and family responsibilities. Depression is not uncommon in men, especially in a culture where male self-worth is often dependent upon physical prowess and career achievements. However, men tend to be less comfortable talking about their feelings or seeking help than women, suggesting that male depression may be underreported. Adolescents are also at risk for depression, particularly those who lack self-confidence, tend to be overly critical of themselves, or those who are unable to cope well with stress in everyday life. While risk factors may increase the probability of depression, there's no certainty that depression will occur. That's because depression risks are also closely associated with individual personalities, temperament and styles of coping, along with how each person construes and reacts to past and current life experiences. For example, a family history of physical, emotional or sexual abuse puts a person at risk for depression later in life. Depression risks may also occur in the context of relationships, as with the loss of a family member, infidelity, divorce, or betrayal by a friend or coworker. Serious illness, especially chronic conditions such as heart disease, Alzheimer's or Parkinson's, pose a risk for depression as well. In addition, depression among caregivers of family members with these chronic conditions is approximately 10 times more frequent than in the general population. Not everyone with risk factors becomes depressed. And many risk factors can be managed with the help of a mental health professional. If you - or someone you know - is at risk for depression, please consult a mental health professional.

Occasional sadness or anxiety is NOT uncommon in children and adolescents. But certain symptoms like persistent sadness, hopelessness and significant behavior changes that impact the ability to function in school, family or social situations can signal depression in young people. An estimated 2% of young children, and 4% to 8% of adolescents suffer from depression, a mental illness that can cause numerous emotional and physical symptoms. Depression can have lasting consequences that result in setbacks to a child's emotional growth, social life and ability to succeed at school. Studies also show that young people who struggle with depression often experience significant disadvantages in adulthood, underscoring the importance of early diagnosis. Yet another - and extremely critical - reason to seek professional help for childhood or adolescent depression is the connection between depression and suicide, which is the third leading cause of death among young people in the 10-to 24-year-old age group. If depression symptoms persist at least two weeks, it's important to visit your family physician to rule out physical causes of the depression symptoms. If depression is suspected, your doctor may suggest a mental health professional for a comprehensive evaluation. To diagnose depression accurately in young people, clinicians rely on the same DSM-IV diagnostic criteria published by the American Psychiatric Association used for diagnosing adults. However, the criteria acknowledge that diagnoses may be more difficult in young people because symptoms vary according to age and development. Meeting the diagnostic criteria for depression involves the presence of at least five of the nine symptoms listed in the DSM-IV, that persist for at least two weeks. Symptoms include persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyed, changes in appetite, sleeping or behavior, fatigue, difficulty concentrating and thoughts of suicide. Challenges in diagnosing depression in young people often include the inability of younger children to fully describe how they feel, as well as teens that may refuse to engage in conversation. To help ensure the most comprehensive understanding of the depression symptoms, the mental health evaluation typically involves interviews with the child and parents, and may include any useful information that other family members, friends, teachers or counselors can provide. Depression in children and adolescents is a serious mental illness that can be frightening for children as well as their parents. But it can be treated successfully. If you suspect your child may be depressed, it's important to consult a mental health professional as soon as possible.