If you’ve ever wondered whether sleep apnea can lead to depression, you’re not alone. Studies increasingly show a close link between these two conditions, with each one potentially raising the risk of the other. Below, we’ll explore what sleep apnea is, how it relates to depression, and what you can do to find the right treatment.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder where your breathing pauses or becomes very shallow while you’re asleep. These pauses can happen multiple times per night, often without you even realizing it. Common symptoms include:
Loud snoring
Feeling tired during the day
Waking up with headaches
Difficulty focusing
Waking up gasping for air
Over time, these sleep disruptions can lead to poor quality of life, affecting work performance, relationships, and overall health.
How Are Sleep Apnea and Depression Connected?
Research points to a two-way (bidirectional) relationship between sleep apnea and depression. A 2018 study revealed that around 35% of people with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) also show signs of depression. On the flip side, having depression may increase your risk of developing sleep apnea or make existing sleep issues worse.
Which Comes First?
It can vary. Sometimes, chronic sleep loss from sleep apnea may lead to irritability, low mood, and feelings of hopelessness—symptoms that align with depression. In other cases, someone with depression might develop sleep problems or see their existing apnea worsen due to mood and energy shifts. Whether one triggers the other or they coexist, getting to the root cause is essential for proper treatment.
Overlapping Symptoms
Because sleep apnea and depression share certain symptoms, it’s easy to confuse the two or overlook one condition altogether. Here are the most common symptoms to watch for:
Sleep Apnea Symptoms
Loud snoring
Pauses in breathing while sleeping
Waking up choking or gasping
Chronic fatigue or sleepiness during the day
Morning headaches
Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking
Irritability
Difficulty staying asleep
Depression Symptoms
Persistent sadness or emptiness
Irritability or anger over small issues
Appetite changes
Sleeping too much or too little
Lack of energy or motivation
Difficulty concentrating
Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
If you notice signs from both lists, talk with a healthcare provider. Sometimes treating one condition can help improve the other.
Getting a Diagnosis
Consult Your Doctor
Start by scheduling an appointment with your primary care doctor. If they suspect sleep apnea, you may be referred to a sleep specialist.
Have a Sleep Study
An overnight sleep study (also called a polysomnogram) measures things like breathing patterns, oxygen levels, and brain activity. These results help confirm if you have sleep apnea.
Check in With a Mental Health Professional
If you don’t have sleep apnea—or if treating it doesn’t improve your mood—it might be time to see a therapist or psychiatrist for a mental health evaluation.
Tips for Coping at Home
While you’re waiting for a diagnosis or looking for ways to support treatment, there are several lifestyle changes that can help with both sleep apnea and depression:
Exercise Regularly
Physical activity can boost mood and help with weight management, which may reduce sleep apnea severity if you’re overweight.
Change Your Sleeping Position
Sleeping on your back can cause your tongue to block your airway. Try sleeping on your side or stomach instead.
Avoid Alcohol
Alcohol can worsen depression and disrupt sleep patterns. Reducing or avoiding it can improve both conditions.
Skip the Sleeping Pills
Some sleeping pills can make sleep apnea worse and may also contribute to depressive symptoms for certain individuals.
Treatment Options
Treating Sleep Apnea
CPAP Therapy
CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) helps keep your airway open, improving sleep quality and potentially lifting your mood.
Lifestyle Changes
Losing weight, quitting smoking, and managing allergies can also reduce sleep apnea.
Dental Devices or Surgery
If CPAP isn’t effective, oral appliances or surgical procedures may be an option.
Managing Depression
Therapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a popular option for coping with negative thoughts and improving sleep habits.
Medication
Antidepressants might help, but it’s important to discuss any potential interactions with your doctor, especially if you’re on other medications.
Support Groups
Connecting with others experiencing similar challenges can provide emotional support and practical coping tips.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you’re experiencing ongoing fatigue, mood swings, or other concerning symptoms that don’t improve with home remedies, it’s time to see a healthcare professional. Addressing both sleep apnea and depression early can significantly enhance your quality of life.