We often hear insomnia described as a symptom of depression. A new study has now found that the opposite may also hold true – that chronic insomnia may cause clinical depression.
A study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology followed 555 chronic insomniacs. After four years, the researchers found the group was up to five times more likely to suffer from depression than those without insomnia. At the start of the study, not one person suffered from depression.
Yet another reason why we need to take insomnia more seriously. If you suffer from insomnia, seek medical advice. If you’re not happy with your current doctor, look for a sleep specialist. Please don’t ignore the problem.
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This is such a “duh” conclusion it hurts–*of course* you’re likely to get depressed if you can’t sleep, especially for long periods of time! You’re jealous of others who can easily sleep, you can’t focus well, you feel you’re worthless, and you’re tired at the time, thus being no fun to be around.
At least they used insomniacs in this study.
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