Many people with idiopathic hypersomnia (IH) experience depressive symptoms. The cause of IH is unknown, so it’s hard to say whether one condition causes the other.
Many people with idiopathic hypersomnia (IH) experience problems with their mental health. Up to 25% of people with IH may experience depressive symptoms.
The relationship between IH and depression is complex. This article breaks down some of your frequently asked questions about depressive symptoms with IH, including the role of treatment on either condition.
Hypersomnia, or an inability to stay awake and alert during the day despite adequate sleep, is common in depression. Feeling fatigued, even after an adequate amount of sleep, is
But the defining nature of idiopathic hypersomnia is that it’s idiopathic in nature. That is, there’s no clear, identifiable cause of the excessive drowsiness and sleep disturbances that people with IH experience.
So while hypersomnia can be a symptom of depression, IH is a distinct sleep disorder.
Moreover, when compared to those experiencing hypersomnia as a result of a mental health condition, individuals with idiopathic hypersomnia
- greater sleep efficiency
- higher total sleep time
- more difficulty waking up in the morning
Because the cause of IH is unknown, it’s hard to say whether one condition causes the other.
Some
- relationships and social health
- work or academic performance
- the ability to complete daily activities
However, until more is uncovered about what causes IH, it may be difficult to know exactly how these two conditions are related.
A variety of depressive symptoms are common with IH. According to an
- difficulty concentrating
- loss of interest in regular activities
- irritability
- sad mood
- social isolation
Anxiety, guilt, and feelings of worthlessness were also commonly reported.
Brain fog and memory problems are also common symptoms of IH and depression.
In general, research suggests that depression in IH can typically be managed with medication.
However, the effects of antidepressant use on IH are complicated. Some antidepressants can increase sleepiness.
A recent
If you need an antidepressant to help manage your depressive symptoms with IH, your healthcare team will work with you to find the right medication and dosage to minimize the impact on your sleep.
Talking with your doctor about your mental health can be overwhelming for some people, and it may be hard to know where to begin. You may find it easier to first discuss the physical symptoms you’re experiencing, such as poor sleep, and then move on to the mental and emotional symptoms.
To help keep the conversation on track and ensure all of your concerns are addressed, you may consider:
- set a goal for the appointment
- write down your symptoms and potential stressors ahead of the appointment
- state your concerns clearly
- be open and honest
Once you have a treatment plan established, be sure to follow up with your healthcare team after a few weeks to let them know if your treatment is working or if you have any additional concerns. Your doctor may also be able to refer you to a therapist or other mental health specialist.
Depression is common in people with IH, and the compounding effects of these two conditions can make it increasingly difficult to cope with daily activities and manage relationships.
Depression in IH is manageable, but choosing a treatment method takes some careful consideration, as some antidepressants can lead to or worsen existing sleep problems.
If you believe you’re experiencing symptoms of depression, your healthcare team can help you understand your options and establish a treatment plan that works best for you and your IH symptoms.