Psychiatria pre prax 6/2006

DEPRESSION WITH ANXIETY AND SLEEP DISTURBANCES

Comorbidity of depressive and anxiety disorders is very frequent mainly in the primary care, where it is more the rule than the extinction. Historically, the classification of anxiety disorders and depression has varied as function of how the medical profession has viewed the association between the two. Comorbid depressive and anxiety disorders were predictive of more persistent course with severe symptoms, these patients have more hospitalizations, and they were more likely to report suicide attempts. Sleep disturbances are an integral part of depressive disorder and many anxiety disorders, and it is reported by more than 90 % of patients. Early recognition and treatment is necessary in prevention of onset or worsening of all co-occurring symptoms and psychosocial functioning.

Keywords: depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, comorbidity.