Depression is defined as a condition where the emotions are at the lowest and the feeling of dejection takes over. All reasoning is lost and there is a great feeling of overwhelming sadness. Insomnia is defined as the inability to sleep, or inability to sleep well is also known as dyssomnia. Depression and insomnia lead to irritability and mood swings.

Depression and insomnia are directly related to each other. Depression causes insomnia and vice-versa. Most of the depressed people are known to suffer from insomnia. Insomnia is not just being unable to sleep. It is also being unable to sleep well, having broken sleep constantly. Insomnia is a symptom of depression, in the same way as depression is a symptom of insomnia. Contrary to popular assumption, depressed people do not sleep more. Instead, researchers have found lack of sleep in depressed people.

Studies have shown that insomnia precedes depression. It was found that treating depression does not cure insomnia. This lead to the belief that insomnia could be one of the factors that causes depression. Treating insomnia, on the other hand, leads to delay in depression.

Effects  

The normal functioning of the brain is disturbed by depression and insomnia, leading to:

·        Fatigue

·        Forgetfulness

·        Lethargy

·        Irritability

Causes

It is estimated that 80% of the population suffers from both depression and insomnia. The causes can be only conjectured but experts in the field treating Insomniac depression believe the causes to be:

·        Over excitement

·        Effects of medications

·        Medical and health related problems

·        Long hours of sleep during day

·        Night shifts at work

·        Anxiety and worry

·        Consumption of stimulants, like coffee at bedtime

Insomnia Treatment

Home remedies are sometimes used for treatment of Insomniac depression. One of these is Aromatherapy. The use of essential oils is supposed to relax the body and induce sleep. While this remedy is not harmful, people suffering from insomnia and depression should consult a doctor. Antidepressants are sometimes prescribed because of their relaxing and sedative effects. These antidepressants relieve depression and improve sleep.

How do anti-depressants work?

The neurotransmitters, serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine, present in the brain are responsible for causing mood swings. Antidepressants work on stimulating these neurotransmitters to induce chemical changes in the brain and thereby relieve depression. They are not addictive but must be taken under the supervision of the treating physician. There are known to be some side effects to these medicines, so patients suffering from Insomniac depression are advised to include a healthy diet and exercise.