An article published in the June 2008 edition of the Psychiatric Times by author Wallace Mendelson, MD, entitled: “New Research on Insomnia”, sheds new light on the relationship between insomnia and psychiatric disorders. Insomnia is a major problem for those individuals who suffer from it. Studies show that insomniacs have poorer mental health, lower quality of life, poor emotional stability often affecting their productivity and output at work and their effectiveness at home. Insomniacs also much more likely to access the health care system for a variety of physical complaints. Studies now show that insomnia is a major risk factor for the development of depression. In contrast to conventional thinking, insomnia appears first and then is followed by the development of a depressive disorder which is consistent with clinical experience. And the risk of developing major depressive disorder after the onset of insomnia is huge—one study showing “a 4-fold increased likelihood of a new major depression developing.” Studies confirm that treating both the insomnia and the depression simultaneously is an effective approach.
The Bottom Line: For insomniacs with depression, treating both the insomnia and the depression simultaneously with psychotherapy and/or psychiatric medication is an effective approach.
Sources: Psychiatric Times, See blogposts in: Psychiatric Disorders: Anxiety Disorders
Dr. Jeffrey Speller
Dr. Tanya Korkosz
Psychopharmacology Associates
of New England
www.psychopharmassociates.com