Sleep Conditions > Mood Disorders > (Sleep Conditions Home or All Sleep Conditions)

Mood Disorders

Description

Mood disorders are mental disorders characterized by either one or more episodes of depression or full or partial manic episodes. Typically insomnia and, occasionally, excessive sleepiness, are features of mood disorders.

Diagnosis

The sleep disturbance associated with mood disorders is comprised of two patterns of insomnia – depression and mania. In depression, the insomnia is mostly characterized by repeated awakenings which leads to premature waking which shortens the amount of sleep. Waking up early and not being able to get back to sleep is the chief complaint of these patients. Most depressed patients also complain of sleep restlessness and feeling tired.
In mania, patients have trouble falling asleep and then sleep for short periods of time. These patients, despite abbreviated sleep, do not complain about lack of sleep, but feel refreshed.

Treatment

Psychotherapy and/or drugs are used to treat the insomnia.

Source: Adapted from International Classification of Sleep Disorders Diagnostic & Coding Manual, American Academy of Sleep Medicine.