Sleep Problems and Disorders in Patients with Depression

Abstract

Both sleep disorders and major depressive disorder are significant clinical and public health problems that lead to increased mortality and morbidity, as well as increased health care costs. Sleep problems and disorders are more prevalent in patients with depression. Although in some people sleep problems and disorders may start before the onset of depressive symptoms, in others they may co-occur with depressive symptoms or persist after treatment of depression. Sleep problems and disorders may also increase risk of relapse and even lead to treatment-resistant depression. It has also been shown that treatment of sleep problems leads to better outcomes in patients with depression. The evaluation and treatment of sleep problems and disorders that are comorbid with depression is essential in improving outcomes. This article examines the evaluation of sleep problems and disorders in patients with depression. [ Psychiatr Ann . 2016;46(7):390–395.]