The Bidirectional Nature of Sleep Problems and Psychopathology
Most patients with psychiatric disorders experience sleep disturbance. Patients with comorbid sleep
problems have greater symptomatology and poorer treatment outcomes. Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA)
and insomnia are associated with higher rates of depression and anxiety than community prevalence
rates. There is evidence indicating a bidirectional relation between sleep disorders and mental health.
Treatment of sleep problems may have additional benefits on mental health for patients with comorbid
psychiatric illness and may prevent the onset of psychiatric conditions in ‘at-risk’ individuals.
Modern Medicine – August 2017
