Why Does Depression Make You Feel Sleepy?
Depression can lead to feelings of excessive sleepiness or fatigue due to several interconnected reasons: Neurochemical Imbalance: Depression affects neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrine, which play roles in regulating sleep-wake cycles. Disruptions in these chemicals can lead to disturbances in sleep patterns, causing either excessive sleepiness or insomnia. Changes in Circadian Rhythms: Depression can disrupt the body's internal clock, known as the circadian rhythm, which regulates sleep and wakefulness. This disruption can result in feeling sleepy during the day and having difficulty sleeping at night. Lack of Energy: Depression often saps energy levels, making even simple tasks feel exhausting. This pervasive fatigue can contribute to a constant feeling of sleepiness. Hypersomnia: Some individuals with depression experience hypersomnia, which is excessive daytime sleepiness or prolonged nighttime sleep. This symptom can be a way for the body to cope with emot...