Sleep is a crucial aspect of overall health, yet it is often overlooked. Beyond restoring energy, sleep plays a vital role in mental well-being, emotional regulation, and physical health. Unfortunately, sleep disturbances are common among individuals experiencing depression, creating a vicious cycle where poor sleep worsens depression, and depression further disrupts sleep. Let’s explore the strong link between sleep and depression, and how innovative treatments like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) can help.
The Link Between Sleep and Depression
Depression is closely tied to disrupted sleep patterns. Individuals with depression frequently report insomnia, difficulty staying asleep, or excessive sleeping (hypersomnia). Research shows that people with depression are much more likely to experience sleep problems than those without mental health disorders. This relationship is bi-directional: not only can depression lead to poor sleep, but lack of sleep can also exacerbate depressive symptoms, making it harder to manage the condition.
According to a study published in BMJ Open, hyperarousal in the brain—a key characteristic in insomnia—can disturb cortical activity, leading to poor sleep. In individuals with depression, this hyperactivity in brain regions related to emotional regulation may explain why depression often disrupts sleep cycles. This makes treating sleep disturbances critical for improving overall mental health.
How TMS Helps with Depression (and Therefore Sleep)
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive treatment that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in areas of the brain responsible for mood regulation. TMS is FDA-approved for treating depression, particularly for those who haven’t responded to traditional antidepressant medications.
Studies show that by improving mood and reducing symptoms of depression, TMS can also have a positive effect on sleep. As depression improves, patients often report better sleep quality. Furthermore, research suggests that TMS may directly influence brain activity in ways that promote sleep. A 2019 review of multiple studies, including those summarized in BMJ Open, found that rTMS (repetitive TMS) holds potential to help with insomnia by reducing cortical hyperactivity, particularly in areas associated with sleep and emotional regulation.
The Role of TMS in Spokane
At Goodwin Health Café in Spokane, we understand the importance of addressing both depression and sleep disturbances. Our team offers cutting-edge TMS therapy, a treatment that not only helps alleviate depression but can also improve your sleep by tackling the root cause. TMS provides an effective, drug-free solution for those struggling with depression and sleep issues, allowing you to regain control over your mental health and overall well-being.
If you’re struggling with sleep disturbances linked to depression, contact Goodwin Health Café today to learn more about how TMS therapy in Spokane can help you on your journey to better health.
Research Source: https://bmjopen.bmj.com/content/9/7/e029206
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