webadminHypersomnia is defined as excessive daytime sleepiness. In addition to being associated with a number of condition like narcolepsy, head injuries, kidney failure, and Parkinson’s disease, it is also associated with mental health disorders like depression. People suffering from hypersomnia are unable to function in the day due to excessive fatigue and the inability to concentrate.
The symptoms of hypersomnia include low energy, irritability, disturbed eating patterns, difficulty concentrating, constant fatigue, agitation, memory impairment, and low energy. People suffering from hypersomnia find it difficult to stay awake for long periods and take naps throughout the day without feeling refreshed or recharged. Patents sleep for more than 11 hours a day that might adversely affect their professional, personal, and social life.
Hypersomnia and mental disorders
Hypersomnia is closely related to mood disorders like depression. While people suffering from depression may be light sleepers, some may experience hypersomnia, constantly looking for a bed to sleep. Such people also have difficulty in waking up and staying alert throughout the day.
The relationship between hypersomnia and depression is complex. Scientists are still not sure if hypersomnia causes depression or the other way round.
Tips to deal with hypersomnia
Hypersomnia can be treated with professional help. But before one seeks that, they can try these tips to help overcome the condition.
Tip 1: Avoid alcohol: If one suffers from poor sleep patterns, they should stay away from alcohol. A central nervous depressant, it seems that alcohol helps fall asleep easier. However, it does not keep a person asleep for the required amount of hours. It dehydrates the body forcing the person to get up multiple times during the night to drink water disturbing the sleep.
Tip 2: Keep an eye on medications: Some times, hypersomnia can be a side effect of the medicines that one is taking. If one is feeling excessively drowsy throughout the day, it would be a good idea to ask your doctor about your medications usually, anti-depressants and medications for chronic pain and anxiety can cause hypersomnia. One can talk to their doctor and get alternative medicines prescribed.
Tip 3: Stay active: try to follow an active lifestyle with exercise and healthy eating. An active lifestyle is essential for a healthy life and even more so, for those who have a sedentary job. Staying active keeps one awake during the day promoting deep sleep during the night.
Tip 4: Check for sleep apnea: This is a condition in which a person stops breathing for a short time while they are sleeping. The breathlessness causes them to wake up multiple times during the night gasping for air without them realizing that they are awake or have woken up. This affects the quality of sleep leaving the person affected tired and feeling lethargic and inattentive during the day.
Tip 5: Epworth test: Taking this test allows ne to measure their sleepiness during the day. If the score on this test is high, then one would need to consult a doctor for remedy.
The way forward
Hypersomnia is a dangerous condition. Imagine, one is driving or working with heavy machinery when they are unable to concentrate and harm themselves or others. Nevertheless, it can be treated with medication and behavioral therapy but for both these one would need to seek professional help.
If you or someone you know suffers from hypersomnia and is battling depression, get in touch with Mind Health Network. We can help you to access the best depression treatment program offering compassionate residential depression care. Our collaborators deliver effective management of symptoms and long-lasting recovery through our research-backed, holistic intervention plans. Call our 24/7 helpline or chat online with one of our representatives to know more about depression treatments and how they help alleviate your symptoms and manage the mood disorder.
