Anxiety, depression, and poor sleep are closely linked, and in many cases, the underlying sleep disorder remains undiagnosed, worsening people’s mental health and quality of life. According to Dr. Alison Bentley, a medical doctor at the Restonic Ezintsha Sleep Clinic in Johannesburg, the relationship between sleep and mental health is complex, but worth understanding to improve both.
“Sleep is like servicing the car of your brain and body, and it needs to happen every night,” says Dr Bentley. “Poor sleep doesn’t just make you tired; it affects your mood, memory, focus, and self-confidence, and can increase your risk of developing depression and anxiety for years to come.”
The Power of Sleep
Restonic SA is the largest bed manufacturer in southern Africa and is on a mission to help people understand the power of sleep. The Restonic Ezintsha Sleep Clinic aims to support local sleep research and training for medical professionals. Adéle de la Reÿ, Group Marketing Manager for Sleep Group, Restonic SA’s parent company, says sleep remains an undervalued aspect of health, including mental health.
“Dr. Bentley has taught me that mental health challenges and sleep disorders often exist in a ‘chicken and egg’ relationship,” she says. “Anxiety and depression can cause sleep disruption, while insomnia and other sleep disorders like sleep apnoea or restless legs syndrome can also trigger or worsen mental health issues. That’s why it’s so important to draw attention to the relationship between sleep and mental health. More and more young people are turning to platforms like TikTok for mental health support, and while this is helping to remove the stigma around mental health challenges, it also means that misinformation is flourishing.”
“Many people attribute their tiredness to work stress, parenting, or simply the demands of life. However, it can sometimes be a sleep disorder, which, if left untreated, can cause long-term damage to both physical and mental health,” she cautions. Sleep disorders are linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, obesity, dementia, and even an earlier onset of diabetes. “Sleep also has a significant impact on mental health, and we are working to raise awareness about this.”
Types of Insomnia and How to Treat Them
Insomnia, characterized by inadequate sleep necessary for proper functioning, is not a uniform condition. Acute insomnia, often triggered by stress or illness, can develop into chronic insomnia if not addressed promptly. Secondary insomnia occurs alongside other conditions, such as arthritis, depression, or anxiety. When insomnia lasts for three months or more, even after the initial trigger has resolved, it is classified as insomnia disorder. This condition tends to be self-sustaining and often requires specific treatment targeting insomnia itself.
While sleeping tablets may help in the short term, they don’t solve the root of the problem. For long-term improvement, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia (CBTI) is a proven, non-medication-based programme that addresses unhelpful sleep habits, thoughts, and behaviours.
Sleep Apnoea and Restless Legs are also Culprits
There are lesser-known connections between mood and various sleep disorders, such as restless legs syndrome and sleep apnoea. Sleep apnoea is a condition characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, which can prevent the body from achieving deep, restorative sleep. This can lead to exhaustion, irritability, and an increased vulnerability to depression. As one expert notes, “In men, sleep apnoea is a common but often overlooked cause of midlife depression.”
Sleep Better, Feel Better
“Insomnia and poor sleep shouldn’t only be viewed as symptoms of mental health issues; they can also contribute to or even cause these problems,” says Dr. Bentley. “Treating both sleep and mood disorders at the same time results in better overall outcomes. If you’re having trouble sleeping or feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to seek help. Improved sleep can be a significant step toward better mental health.”
